NRM Manifesto 2021-2026

SECURING YOUR FUTURE
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 1

“
The mantle of securing the future of Uganda is so
great a task for one to play bets on. It is not a gamble.
It is a matter which requires lifelong commitment,
unending sacrifice and vast experience. NRM is the
only political organisation that can be trusted with
the sacred responsibility of securing Uganda’s future.
”
FOREWORD
I n January 2021, Ugandans will, once again, go to the polls to exercise their constitutional
and democratic right to elect their representatives through a general election for the
sixth successive time since 1996. After years of turmoil, this is the first time ever that Uganda
has enjoyed more than three decades of an uninterrupted stable democratic process
buttressed by NRM’s core principles of Democracy, Patriotism, Pan-Africanism and Socio-
economic transformation.
We have met most of the goals and aspirations of our people. We have made giant
steps in our endeavour to improve the quality of life for all Ugandans. We have built a firm
foundation to steer the economy for social transformation and economic take-off into self-
sustaining growth.
Under the leadership of National Resistance Movement (NRM), our democracy has
deepened and blossomed to full maturity, to the extent that anyone can now dream of
leading Uganda. At every definitive stage on our long journey, the visionary leadership of
NRM has always championed progressive policies and programmes to steer the country
forward.
This is an epic journey to our destiny and while it might be replete with challenges, it is full of
hope and promise. Through our successive visionary manifestos, we have rallied Ugandans
around our strategic policies that best serve their diverse aspirations and enhance their
welfare. When NRM sought, for the first time, your support and mandate to lead this country
in 1996, our promise was “Tackling the Tasks Ahead”.
Over the years, you have renewed this mandate and enabled NRM to make steady
progress in taking Uganda to modernity through job creation and inclusive development.
We are now ready for take-off. The theme of our manifesto this term is “Securing Your
Future”.
The impressive socio-economic transformation that has been achieved under NRM has
awakened Ugandans to meaningfully participate in wealth and job-creation initiatives.
More Ugandans are embracing the urgent need to integrate into the modern money
economy. They are making a positive transition from poor and subsistence living to
modernity.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 5
NATIONAL RESISTANCE MOVEMENT
The wealth-creation campaigns by NRM are beginning to yield succulent fruits. A new
dawn is clearly on the horizon.
Therefore, in order to accelerate Uganda’s socio-economic transformation, I appeal to

you for a fresh mandate for NRM to continue leading the country. NRM has an unmatched
record of performance and a clear vision of securing your future.
NRM has managed to sail Uganda through the most violent and turbulent storms in our
history. Through this time, NRM has been tried, tested and found worthy of continued
leadership of this country. Our resolve to the call of duty remains steadfast and this is our
solemn promise.
In line with our principled approach to economic development and growth, we have
selected five priority areas of focus. They are: Creating Wealth and Jobs; Delivering
Education and Health; Ensuring Justice and Equity; Protecting Life and Property and
Achieving Economic and Political Integration.
The mantle of securing the future of Uganda is so great a task for one to play bets on. It is
not a gamble. It is a matter which requires lifelong commitment, unending sacrifice and
vast experience. NRM is the only political organisation that can be trusted with the sacred
responsibility of securing Uganda’s future.
At this point, it is my great pleasure and privilege to present to the people of Uganda the
NRM Manifesto, 2021-2026.
Vote NRM.
Long Live NRM.
Long Live Uganda.
For God and My Country.
Yoweri Kaguta Museveni

PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE 2021
6 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

PROFILE OF THE NRM

PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE
P resident Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is a man of strong convictions and rare courage. He
takes risks and pursues national interests above his personal comfort and safety. He is
a result-oriented leader, whose calling to politics is borne out of a deep and unwavering
commitment to finding lasting solutions to the challenges of society.
He displays exceptional understanding of the historical and social challenges of African

societies. This is what inspired his direct involvement in the liberation and emancipation of
his countrymen and women.
Museveni has been politically active since his school days. He started waking up
Banyankole from poverty as early as 1959 when he joined Mbarara High School. He strongly
discouraged nomadism. Later when he joined Ntare School, he doubled as president
of the debating society and scripture union. These helped perfect his convictions and
shaped him for leadership.
His political awareness and ideological orientation became more focused during the
three years (1967 to 1970) he spent at the University of Dar es Salaam. The university
provided a very conducive atmosphere for pan-Africanism and anti-imperialism. While
there, he became the president of the University Students’ African Revolutionary Front
(USARF), providing an opportunity for him to gain mentorship from President Julius Nyerere.
It is while at this university that he developed far-reaching pan-Africanist and revolutionary
ideas.
Museveni was instrumental in forming Front for National Salvation (FRONASA), which was
the core of Ugandan fighting groups that, together with the Tanzanian People’s Defence
Forces, ousted Idi Amin’s regime in April 1979.
On 29th January 1986, Museveni became President of the Republic of Uganda after
leading a protracted five-year liberation struggle. This was a people’s resistance, with no
external base, relying entirely on popular community support, to save their country from
total collapse and abuse of the dignity of human life.
Upon coming to power, he laid a firm foundation for reconciliation and national harmony,
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 7

proving that people of differing cultural, religious and political allegiances can form a
broad-based government.
Since 1986, NRM, under the leadership of President Museveni has demonstrated the
revolutionary effect good leadership can have on a country. He inherited a country
and an economy in ruins. The colonial enclave economy had almost disappeared by
the time NRM took power. Under Museveni’s leadership, NRM initiated socio-economic
policies designed to combat key challenges, including insecurity of persons and their
property, extra-judicial killing, and rampant shortages of essential commodities.
Uganda, under Museveni’s leadership, has registered tremendous steady progress in

all sectors of the economy. The size of the economy has grown close to tenfold since
1986. The GDP per capita has also increased. Ugandans today live healthier and longer
lives. They are better educated. Children no longer die of preventable diseases and are
attending school free of charge. Infrastructure has tremendously improved. The total
tarmacked road network has increased fivefold. Electricity generation is no longer a
problem. Our challenge now is transmission, distribution and cost. Telecommunication
has improved, almost every adult has a phone.
Under President Museveni’s leadership, Uganda has significantly contributed to regional

peace, security and stability. For instance, Uganda supported the African National
Congress (ANC) of South Africa by hosting its fighters and training them for the liberation
of South Africa from apartheid. Uganda also contributed to the restoration of peace in
Rwanda, resettlement of her refugees and ending the genocide. Today, Uganda is a
host to refugees from across the region and beyond because it is a safe country, unlike
the days when her own people filled refugee camps in the region.
During his time as President, the Uganda People’s Defence Force has played a vital and
positive role in the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Somalia, Sierra Leone,
Liberia and Central African Republic.
President Museveni is a strong advocate of African unity and integration. He is among the
African statesmen increasingly credited for championing African unity. Indeed, African
diplomats fondly refer to him as “the African Bismarck”. He is driven by the urgent need
to permanently cure Africa’s vulnerable position in the global arena of economic and
political giants.
8 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

President Yoweri Museveni
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As one who dedicated his youthful years to Africa’s liberation struggles against oppressive
regimes, Museveni is deeply concerned that Africa is still easy prey for plunder and
marginalisation, as long as the strides towards economic and political integration remain
at snail’s pace. This explains his passionate fight against the subsistence mindset of our
communities, championing of prioritisation of infrastructural development, in addition
to his efforts towards the pacification of conflict-ridden neighbours and tireless call for
integration.
Museveni’s transformative leadership has earned him several accolades, including:

l New York University and World Bank experts have ranked him among the most
transformative leaders in the world who have presided over their countries’ rapid
economic growth.
l He was awarded the Global Peace Award from the Global Peace Foundation for his
display of courage, exemplary democratic and global leadership.
l He received the AfrikaVerein Award for excellence in leadership from the German-
Africa Business Association. Museveni was the first African president to receive this
prestigious award.
l He has been awarded several honorary doctorates, including:

- Humphrey School of Public Affairs — Minnesota, USA
- Latin University of Theology — USA
- University of Dar es Salaam — Tanzania
- Makerere University and Mbarara University — Uganda.
l Museveni’s most widely noted accomplishment has been his government’s successful
campaign against HIV/AIDS. Uganda has a unique success story in the global battle
against the virus.
l On 21st January 2020, President Museveni received The African Leadership Magazine
Award, in London, in honour of his contribution to the liberation struggles of Africa and
good leadership skills.
10 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

l He has also been recently credited for championing a decisive battle against the
coronavirus pandemic in Uganda by taking quick and bold measures to combat its
spread. The prestigious Lancet Medical Journal credited Uganda for being among
the 10 best countries in the world and the best country in Africa in responding to the
COVID-19 pandemic. On account of his decisive leadership style, Uganda has been
spared from the nightmare of massive deaths as a result of the coronavirus.
Museveni has successfully ensured security, democracy and delivery of social services for
the betterment of Ugandans.
It is no accident, therefore, that Uganda is today enjoying peace from corner to corner
of the country and with its neighbours. The country is now seen as a beacon of peace.
Museveni is happily married to Janet Kataha Museveni, with children and bazzukulu
(grandchildren).
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 11

TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD .................................................................................................................................. 05
PROFILE OF THE NRM PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE .......................................................................... 07
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................... 20
CREATING
JOBS AND WEALTH.................................................................................................. 21
DELIVERING
EDUCATION, HEALTH AND WATER....................................................................... 22
ENSURING JUSTICE AND EQUITY................................................................................................ 23
PROTECTING LIFE AND PROPERTY.............................................................................................. 24
ACHIEVING ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL INTEGRATION......................................................... 24

CREATING JOBS AND WEALTH FOR ALL UGANDANS........................................... 26
1. EVOLUTION OF UGANDA’S ECONOMY........................................................................ 27
1.1. UGANDA’S ECONOMY AT THE DAWN OF COLONIALISM........................................ 27
1.2. UGANDA’S ECONOMY AT THE SUNSET OF COLONIALISM......................................... 32
1.3. THE COLLAPSE OF THE ECONOMY UNDER AMIN......................................................... 34
1.4. THE ECONOMY NRM INHERITED.................................................................................... 36
1.5. CURRENT STATE OF THE ECONOMY.............................................................................. 38
1.6. HIGHLIGHTS OF SOME OF NRM’S ACHIEVEMENTS....................................................... 39
1.6.1. ECONOMIC ACHIEVEMENTS.......................................................................................... 40
1.6.2. SOCIO-POLITICAL ACHIEVEMENTS................................................................................. 41
1.7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS...................................................................................................... 42
2. ECONOMIC STRATEGY.................................................................................................. 43
2.1. ECONOMIC OBJECTIVES................................................................................................ 43
2.2. ECONOMIC FOCUS........................................................................................................ 43
BOX 1: ADDRESSING THE MAIN FACTORS OF PRODUCTION....................................... 44
2.2.1. ACCELERATING THE INDUSTRIALISATION AGENDA..................................................... 47
BOX 2: REAL ECONOMY VS VULNERABLE ECONOMY................................................. 47
2.2.2. IMPORT SUBSTITUTION AND EXPORT PROMOTION.................................................... 58
2.2.3. A CASE FOR GROWING THE LOCAL PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY........................... 64
2.2.4. STRENGTHENING THE PRIVATE SECTOR........................................................................ 67
2.2.5. INCREASE MARKET ACCESS FOR EXPORTS................................................................... 68
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2.2.6. TURNING YOUTH INTO MANUFACTURERS USING ZONAL INDUSTRIAL HUBS................ 70

2.2.7. LEATHER TANNING FACTORY......................................................................................... 73
2.2.8. REVENUE MOBILISATION MEASURES.............................................................................. 74
2.2.9. EXPENDITURE CONTROL MEASURES............................................................................... 76
3. RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSFORMATION............................................................ 77
3.1. AGRICULTURE COMMERCIALISATION AND INDUSTRIALISATION................................. 78
3.1.1. AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION AND PRODUCTIVITY..................................................... 78
3.1.2. POST-HARVEST HANDLING AND STORAGE................................................................... 85
3.1.3. AGRO-PROCESSING....................................................................................................... 88
3.1.4. SECOND PHASE OF OPERATION WEALTH CREATION (OWC)..................................... 92
3.1.5. AGRICULTURAL MECHANISATION.................................................................................. 95
3.2. WATER FOR PRODUCTION AND IRRIGATION................................................................. 96
3.2.1. WATER RESEARCH AND INNOVATIONS......................................................................... 100
3.3. THE PARISH MODEL: WHAT AND HOW IT IS GOING TO WORK.................................... 102
3.3.1. WHAT IS NEW?.................................................................................................................. 102
3.3.2. HOW WILL IT WORK?........................................................................................................ 102
3.3.3. THE FOUR ACRE APPROACH UNDER THE PARISH MODEEL.......................................... 106
3.3.4. THOSE WITH LESS THAN FOUR ACRES............................................................................. 106
3.3.5. THOSE WITH MORE THAN FOUR ACRES......................................................................... 107
3.3.6. LARGE SCALE LANDOWNERS......................................................................................... 107
3.4. FUNDING OPTIONS FOR RURAL TRANSFORMATION..................................................... 108
3.4.1. FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO THE INFORMAL SECTOR — EMYOOGA................................. 108
3.4.2. SUPPORT TO ELECTED LEADERS...................................................................................... 109
4. INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT................................................................................ 110
4.1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................... 110
4.2. ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE............................................................................................. 110
4.2.1. PROGRESS....................................................................................................................... 111
4.2.2. WAY FORWARD.............................................................................................................. 118
4.3. RAILWAY......................................................................................................................... 120
4.3.1. PROGRESS ...................................................................................................................... 123
4.3.2. WAY FORWARD.............................................................................................................. 124
4.4. WATER TRANSPORT.......................................................................................................... 126
4.5. AIR TRANSPORT............................................................................................................... 126
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4.5.1. PROGRESS ....................................................................................................................... 127

4.5.2. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................... 129
4.6. ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE ................................................................................................ 132
4.6.1. PROGRESS ON NATIONAL ROADS................................................................................ 132
4.6.2. WAY FORWARD ............................................................................................................ 136
4.6.3. PROGRESS ......................................................................................................................... 138
4.6.4. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................... 139
4.6.5. PROGRESS ON KAMPALA CAPITAL CITY AUTHORITY ROADS MANAGEMENT............ 140
4.6.6. WAY FORWARD .............................................................................................................. 142
4.6.7. MARKETS, DRAINAGE, STREETLIGHTING AND OTHER
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT.................................................................................. 150
4.6.8. PROGRESS ...................................................................................................................... 150
4.6.9. PROGRESS ON REGIONAL CITIES AND MUNICIPAL ROADS......................................... 152
4.6.10. WAY FORWARD ............................................................................................................. 154
4.6.11. PROGRESS ON DISTRICT, URBAN AND COMMUNITY ACCESS
ROADS (DUCAR)............................................................................................................ 155
4.6.12. WAY FORWARD.............................................................................................................. 156
4.6.13. DEVELOPMENT OF MARKETS.......................................................................................... 158
4.6.14. URBAN HOUSING............................................................................................................ 159
4.7. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY............................................. 160
4.7.1. PROGRESS ..................................................................................................................... 161
4.7.2. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................ 163
5. OIL AND GAS.............................................................................................................. 165
5.1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................ 165
5.2. PROGRESS .................................................................................................................... 166
A. REFINERY DEVELOPMENT.......................................................................................... 166
B. PIPELINES DEVELOPMENT.......................................................................................... 166
C. KABAALE PETRO-BASED INDUSTRIAL PARK (KIP)..................................................... 167
D. KAMPALA STORAGE TERMINAL (KST)........................................................................ 167
E. CAPACITY BUILDING IN THE OIL AND GAS SECTOR................................................. 167
F. NATURAL GAS PIPELINE.............................................................................................. 170
5.3. WAY FORWARD.............................................................................................................. 170
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6. MINERAL-LED INDUSTRIALISATION................................................................................ 172

6.1. PROGRESS .................................................................................................................... 173
6.2. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................. 176
7. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND INNOVATION...................................... 179
7.1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 179
7.2. PROGRESS .................................................................................................................... 180
7.3. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................ 192
8. TOURISM....................................................................................................................... 195
8.1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 195
8.2. PROGRESS .................................................................................................................... 196
8.3. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................. 198
DELIVERING EDUCATION, HEALTH AND WATER................................................ 202

1. EDUCATION, SKILLS AND SPORTS............................................................................... 202
1.1. PROGRESS ..................................................................................................................... 203
1.2. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................ 209
2. HEALTH.......................................................................................................................... 215
2.1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 215
2.2. PROGRESS .................................................................................................................... 218
2.3. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................ 225
3. WATER, SANITATION AND HYGIENE............................................................................ 233
3.1. PROGRESS .................................................................................................................... 233
3.2. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................. 234
ENSURING JUSTICE AND EQUITY......................................................................... 240

1. LAW AND ORDER......................................................................................................... 240
1.1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 240
1.2. PROGRESS..................................................................................................................... 241
1.3. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................ 242
2. PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGEMENT AND FIGHTING
CORRUPTION................................................................................................................ 244
2.1. REFORMING THE PUBLIC SECTOR FOR SERVICE DELIVERY......................................... 244
2.2. FIGHTING CORRUPTION................................................................................................ 245
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3. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION................................................................................................... 249

3.1. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION FOR WAR-RAVAGED AREAS................................................... 249
3.2. SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS........................................................................................... 250
4. DEALING WITH LAND ISSUES: OWNERSHIP, ACCESS, USE
SECURITY AND FRAGMENTATION................................................................................ 253
4.1. DEALING WITH LAND FRAGMENTATION...................................................................... 258
PROTECTING LIFE AND PROPERTY....................................................................... 262

1. SECURITY...................................................................................................................... 262
1.1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 262
1.2. THE UPDF....................................................................................................................... 263
1.3. THE POLICE................................................................................................................... 265
2. DEMOCRACY................................................................................................................ 267
3. ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT....................................... 269
3.1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 269
3.2. PROGRESS ..................................................................................................................... 270
3.3. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................ 271
ACHIEVING ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL INTEGRATION.................................. 274

1. ACHIEVING ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL INTEGRATION........................................... 274
1.1. PROGRESS .................................................................................................................... 276
1.2. WAY FORWARD............................................................................................................ 277
CONCLUSION ....................................................................................................... 283
REFERENCES.................................................................................................................. 284
ANNEX ....................................................................................................... 285
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 17

INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
N ational Resistance Movement (NRM) party continues to enjoy massive support

and endorsement from every part of Uganda. This is because it is a true pro-
people party with a clear and principled agenda of ensuring the safety and prosperity
of all Ugandans. Its countrywide grassroots appeal draws both young and old to
advance the party’s core principles of Democracy, Patriotism, Pan-Africanism and
Socio-economic transformation.
The leadership of NRM has transformed Uganda into a stable and democratic
country, which fosters and protects the people’s fundamental right to choose their
representatives in a free and fair election every five years.
In the 2016 elections, the people of Uganda chose NRM as the trusted guardian of
their interests and aspirations for a better life. This was demonstrated through the
overwhelming support enjoyed by NRM candidates at all electoral levels: President,
Parliament and Local Government.
During the five-year (2016-2021) term, which President Museveni named “Kisanja
Hakuna Mchezo”, NRM has honoured its pledge to the people of Uganda by delivering
on the promises made.
NRM has paved a clear path for meaningful growth and development in Uganda by
eliminating the obstacles of poor infrastructure, political instability, backwardness,
corruption and sectarianism. As a result, there is a great surge of optimism regarding
the future of Uganda.
The country is now ripe for a rich harvest due to NRM’s appropriate policies and
programmes. This manifesto is a comprehensive blueprint of the policies, which the
party will follow and implement over the next five years to build on the solid socio-
20 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

economic foundation already established.
NRM will secure the future of all Ugandans by prioritising the following:
1. CREATING JOBS AND WEALTH

NRM is committed to translating the economic growth and development so far
registered into more jobs and wealth for all Ugandans. NRM will continue to help more
people to take advantage of the existing socio-economic infrastructure — roads,
electricity and ICT — to create jobs and wealth. Jobs and wealth put money into
people’s pockets, food on the table, ensure savings for the future and investment in
income-generating activities.
NRM has identified the following four sectors for jobs and wealth creation.
a. Commercial agriculture
b. Industrialisation
c. Services
d. Information and Communications Technology (ICT).
NRM will promote commercial agriculture as opposed to the unprofitable subsistence

farming. Small-scale and medium-scale farmers will be helped to select enterprises
with higher returns per acre annually. Through Operation Wealth Creation (OWC)
and the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS), NRM will continue supplying
farm inputs to farmers as well as extension services in the area of modern agricultural
practices.
Key sectors of Uganda’s economy, especially agriculture and ICT, have endured
through the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, coffee exports grew despite the
pandemic, which triggered a lockdown. The April 2020 figures show growth compared
to a year ago, confirming that agriculture is strong and essential.
Uganda weathered the storm because of the Government’s appropriate actions,

including the earlier promotion of private sector-led growth.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 21

NRM will continue to prioritise industrialisation and its pace doubled with initiatives
to attract more investments in agro-processing to add value to primary products. In
addition, the abundant deposits of different minerals will be harnessed to support
mineral-led industrialisation, creating revenue and jobs.
NRM will advance the Buy Uganda Build Uganda (BUBU) policy in order to grow local
manufacturing as opposed to the importation of foreign products.
The Government’s capitalisation of the Uganda Development Bank (UDB) will be

increased to enable entrepreneurs engaged in the service sectors, ICT, industries and
commercial agriculture to access low-interest loans.
2. DELIVERING EDUCATION, HEALTH AND WATER

An educated and healthy population is key in improving people’s standards of living.
NRM pioneered the Education-for-All policy through the Universal Primary Education
(UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE) programmes. As a result, there has
been a rise in school enrolment at all levels of education. Attendance and completion
rates have also improved significantly.
Access to education for all has helped bridge the gender gap as more females are
going to school and attaining academic qualifications, enabling them to get well-
paying jobs just like their male counterparts. NRM will continue to emphasise the
teaching of science subjects, skills development, innovation and research. In addition,
courses in institutions of higher learning will be purposely developed and aligned to
meet the market demands of the private sector.
The health of Ugandans is also one of NRM’s top priorities, upholding health as wealth.
In order to achieve the total well-being of the nation, her citizens must be healthy.
Under NRM, Ugandans are assured of a longer lifespan because of better maternal
healthcare, immunisation programmes as well as the aggressive campaigns against
malaria and HIV/AIDS control campaigns. NRM will continue to invest in the health
22 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

infrastructure across the country in order to achieve the goal of a modern and resilient
healthcare system, which is responsive to the needs of all people.
NRM takes credit for its effective handling of highly infectious diseases, including
Ebola, Marburg and COVID-19. We will continue to emphasise prevention through
mass sensitisation campaigns regarding personal hygiene and the adoption of
healthy lifestyles.
Uganda, like many countries around the world, has had to respond to the onslaught
of the coronavirus pandemic. The Government viewed COVID-19 as a fearless foe
of human life, which needed to be confronted with proper messages and decisive
action. The approach to dealing with the pandemic prioritised the protection of
human life.
The Government, as a first pragmatic step, developed guidelines and standard

operating procedures (SOPs) to align and standardise its response through combined
systematic testing, tracing, quarantining and treating with restrictions on movement
and contact — aiming at suppressing the transmission of the virus.
3. ENSURING JUSTICE AND EQUITY

NRM remains a champion for justice and equity for all Ugandans. The institutions
mandated to deliver justice to Ugandans like the Uganda Police Force and the courts
of law will further be strengthened.
Equal representation of all people on public decision-making bodies like the local
councils, youth councils and Parliament will be maintained and ensured. The youth,
elderly, women and Persons With Disabilities will continue to have a respected voice
in matters of policy and resource allocation.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 23

4. PROTECTING LIFE AND PROPERTY

NRM holds sacred the sanctity and worth of all human lives. The protection of human
life and the right of individuals or groups to own property cannot be compromised.
In effect, NRM will continue carrying the mantle of protecting Ugandans from any
internal and external threats. We recognise security of persons and their property as an
important ingredient of economic development and growth. Our resolve to continue
jealously guarding the peace and stability of Uganda will remain our ultimate goal and
commitment.
5. ACHIEVING ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL INTEGRATION

Uganda is an anchor state in championing economic and political integration. Therefore,
NRM remains committed to the urgent need for Africa’s economic and political
integration.
NRM recognises the fact that Uganda’s current market, estimated at 45 million people, is
insufficient to guarantee the country and its people’s prosperity. As industries expand to
attain mass production, NRM will take advantage of Africa’s market of 1.3 billion people.
This is why NRM joined other African governments to sign the African Continental Free
Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement, which removes obstacles to the movement of goods
and people across Africa. NRM will also continue to advocate political integration for
strategic security.
NRM is aware that economic prosperity alone is not enough. Political integration is the
only safeguard against aggression from bigger powers. Therefore, NRM will continue to
pursue integration for prosperity and strategic security. Its commitment to regional issues
remains unchanged.
Finally, Uganda is on the right trajectory. Through our collective effort, the democracy
rating is rising and maturing while people’s freedoms are entrenched and safe. The social,
economic and political gains are cemented and irreversible. We have a lot to be proud
of and a lot to be grateful for. At this rate, Uganda is unstoppable in securing your future.
The above five areas of focus form the structure of this manifesto, each constituting a
section, which is divided into chapters that show in detail what NRM has achieved and
plans to achieve over the next five years.
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CREATING JOBS AND WEALTH
FOR ALL UGANDANS
CREATING JOBS AND WEALTH

FOR ALL UGANDANS
O ne of NRM’s outstanding challenges is getting the economy to work more efficiently

and equitably for all Ugandans. The latest National Labour Force Survey (2016/17)
found that the majority of Ugandan youth aged 18-30 years are either unemployed or
employed in the informal sector. Less than 15% had formal jobs. About 68.9% of Ugandans
(that is seven in every 10) are engaged in agriculture, doing subsistence farming with
hardly any surplus for the market. The few Ugandans already in the monetised economy
(31%) face the high cost of doing business, which limits their effort to create wealth and
more jobs for the two categories above — the youth and those in the subsistence sector.
This section of the manifesto outlines and elaborates what NRM is going to do over the
next five years to:
(a) Skill and facilitate the youth and women across the country to create productive jobs
for everyone.
(b) Scale up our efforts through Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), using the parish
model, to support the 68.9% homesteads in subsistence farming to commercialise and
create wealth for themselves and raise household incomes.
(c) Take advantage of opportunities created by COVID-19 to accelerate our

industrialisation agenda to create more jobs and wealth.
(d) Address the bottlenecks to investment and doing business such as high cost of credit,
electricity and transport to increase the competitiveness of our products, widen the
country’s export base and create more wealth. We also highlight our agenda on mineral-
led industrialisation, economic infrastructure, oil and gas as well as science, technology
and innovation to drive our job and wealth-creation agenda.
26 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

However, before we show how we are going to create jobs and wealth over the next five
years, it is important to remind ourselves, first, where we have come from and where we
are, such that we can see where we are going and how we shall get there.
We begin by tracing the economy from the early days of colonialism to independence.
Then we show you what NRM has done to restore and accelerate the expansion of the
economy following the massive destruction inflicted by the past governments. We also
provide an account of the current state of the economy as well as the unfinished business.
Thereafter, we elaborate how we are going to get the economy to work for everybody
by attending to the four issues raised above, which are: skilling and facilitation of youth
and women to create jobs; supporting the 68.9% to join the money economy; scaling
up industrialisation to create more jobs and addressing bottlenecks to doing business in
order to create more jobs and wealth.
1. EVOLUTION OF UGANDA’S ECONOMY
1.1. UGANDAN ECONOMY AT THE DAWN OF COLONIALISM

Before the British arrived and mapped the territory that came to be known as Uganda,
there were four kingdoms (Ankole, Buganda, Bunyoro and Tooro) and communities/
chiefdoms located in Acholi, Bugisu, Bukedi, Busoga, Karamoja, Kigezi, Lango, Madi,
Sebei, Teso and West Nile. With all their differences — cultural and political — these were
later weaved together into the nation called Uganda.
When Uganda became a British protectorate on 18th June 1894, efforts were invested in
securing Britain’s economic interests — raw materials, markets and taxes. Uganda was
henceforth structured to be the producer of primary products for Britain and market for
its products. To achieve this, crops such as cotton, coffee, sugar, rubber and tea were
introduced. 1
In 1901 when the railway from Mombasa reached Kisumu, Uganda came into contact
with the markets of the world. This was the first time the value of Uganda’s agricultural
products at the coast was greater than the cost of their transport. Prior to the construction
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 27

of the railway — apart from slaves who transported themselves — the only possible
export for Uganda was ivory, sold in Zanzibar at up to £1,000 a tonne.2 This trade brought
considerable new wealth to some people, but made no appreciable change in the
structure of the economic system.
Later, a new economic era was inaugurated and subsisted between 1902 and 1914,
marking the beginning of the development of Uganda. It is then that Uganda’s economy
began to take shape even though still small in size. With most of the minerals not yet
discovered — except for copper in the then remotely located Rwenzori area, traces of tin
on the southwestern border and ivory — the only obvious existing resources to generate
revenue were hides and skins, raffia and sansevieria fibres, vine rubber, chillies and the
indigenous robusta coffee. All these products made their appearance in Uganda’s
export statistics during the early years of the 20th century, but their total contribution to
the economy was negligible.
Besides, most European explorers from Henry Morton Stanley and others who followed
him had sung praises of Uganda as a rich agricultural country capable of producing a
wide range of tropical and sub-tropical commodities. The ‘native crops’ were, however,
deemed not valuable enough to be worth exporting, with the exception of simsim and
groundnuts — and even these had no spectacular profit margin. Therefore, a new list of
crops, to be produced with the help of Europeans and Asians, was drawn. These included
tea, cocoa, sugar, vanilla, rubber (mainly grown by Mabira Forest Rubber Co.), coffee
and cotton, which Sir Harry Johnston (the then commissioner of Uganda) had dismissed
as being unable to compete with the established products of other countries.
Cotton was introduced to Uganda in 1902 by the Church Missionary Society (CMS),
supported by the British Cotton Growing Association to supply Lancashire textile industry.
The association supplied CMS with the cotton seed which was brought to Uganda at the
end of 1903 and distributed to Buganda chiefs for planting and promotion. Towards the
end of 1904, some 54 bales of cotton lint, valued at £236, were on their way down the
railway to the Lancashire mills. 3
The challenge, however, was the falling quality of the lint supplied, which forced the
government to establish two seed farms and take over seed distribution beginning in
March 1908. The growers were also compelled by law to uproot and burn all their old crops
28 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

and plant the new seed. The government also invested in cotton research by establishing
a fully fledged Department of Agriculture. There was also further expansion of cotton
production outside Buganda, particularly in Busoga, Lango, Teso and Bukedi. By 1910/11,
cotton exports had reached 13,378 bales valued at £165,412, and by then it accounted
for more than half of the total exports of the Protectorate. 4 As a result, government
revenue rose to £191,000 in 1910-11, and by this time it was inching closer to financial self-
sufficiency. Back then, total government expenditure was as low as £229,000.
Arabica Coffee had been introduced two years earlier (in 1900) from Malawi and
Ethiopian highlands, while tea and sugar were introduced in the 1920s. In the 1920s,
cotton and coffee accounted for 90% of Uganda’s total exports, of which cotton alone
formed 84% of the total exports.5 There were a few upcoming agro-based industries;
Uganda Sugar Factory (now SCOUL) opened in 1924 and Kakira Sugar Works which was
started in 1930.6 There was also some processing of salt extracted from Lake Katwe. The
African Power & Lighting Company Limited was the first electricity supply company in the
country producing electricity using thermal energy, which commenced its activities (with
the installation of bulbs in Kampala) in March 1938. 7
Therefore, at the dawn of colonialism, the economic policy in Uganda depended almost
exclusively on African agriculture as the basis for economic growth. From the first years of
colonial rule to the end of the World War II, Uganda’s economy had been built within a
loosely structured framework of an agro-based dual-economy. Although a few industries
— such as iron ore mining and smelting, salt from Lake Albert and Lake Katwe, graphite,
copper, chalk, crafts and barkcloth production — existed, Ugandans predominantly
engaged in subsistence agriculture and livestock farming (pastoralism).
The British colonial economic policy was designed to undermine African industry and
stifle private sector development in Uganda. For example, Africans were excluded from
wholesale trade. According to the policy, wholesale trade licences could only be issued
to traders who owned permanent buildings constructed using stone, concrete and steel.
Back then, very few indigenous Ugandans owned such buildings to qualify for a trade
licence. Consequently, throughout the colonial times, Africans handled less than 10% of
the national trade. Subsistence agriculture remained the main economic activity for over
80% of Ugandans.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 29

Uganda was configured as an “enclave economy” where foreigners (Europeans and

Asians) established an island of modernity based on extractive secondary industries,
plantation farming and commerce, surrounded by a sea of poverty, indolence,
ignorance and inertia. The main objective of the British colonial policy was to generate
incomes among Ugandans that could be taxed to finance the enclave, which was
designed to disadvantage the natives. Ugandans were nurtured to work for subsistence
and dependence on chiefs and masters. One historian remarked that in the 1950s “the
people [of Uganda] did not learn to produce for sale, because they obtained everything
by force of arms or as gifts from the Kabaka.” 8
In 1906, Sir Hesketh Bell (the first Governor of the British Protectorate - Uganda) introduced
a poll tax “to encourage the Africans to cultivate cotton and other cash crops.” In
addition, a monthly tax was imposed on all uncultivated African land. Each region in
Uganda was utilised for the type of farming thought to be climatically and geographically
suited to it — peasant agriculture in Buganda and eastern, and large-scale farming by
expatriates in western Uganda. Northern Uganda was considered as merely a source of
migrant labour for the larger peasant estates as well as for the plantations. This system
was designed merely as an expedient and least-cost method of increasing the supply of
raw cotton for the British industries. It was not motivated to any significant degree by an
altruistic interest in the welfare of the natives.
After the end of World War II, however, factors such as the pressures of international
politics, the plight of the pound sterling, increase in Uganda’s population (from 1.6
million in 1900 to 4.9 million in 1948), and the prospect of an advancement towards
self-government combined to make the growth of production and wealth in Uganda
a matter of urgency. In 1944, the Protectorate Government issued a report (in effect
Uganda’s first post-war plan) entitled Joint Report of the Standing Finance Committee
and the Development and Welfare Committee on Post-War Development. The report
concluded that even if the prevailing high prices held and yields could be improved,
cotton would never make the Ugandan producer rich. 9
Two years later, a 10-year Development Plan for Uganda (1946-1955) was written by E. B.
Worthington, and in a foreword to it the then Governor of Uganda, Sir John Hathorn Hall,
wrote: “Uganda is and must remain for the present at all events primarily a country of
peasant agriculture.” The plan noted, “While maintaining steady improvements to social
30 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

services, the prime object should be a concentration on productive effort to ensure

that production increases rapidly at a rate much higher than population.” It proposed
construction of the Owen Falls Dam to produce hydro-electric power (HEP) to power
the expansion of secondary industries to process raw materials such as cotton, coffee,
tobacco and tea. It also promoted the development of the tourism sector.
Major capital projects were embarked on in the 1950s, including the construction of the
HEP station in Jinja; promotion of mineral exploration in Kilembe and Tororo in western and
eastern Uganda respectively and the westward extension of the railway from Kampala
to Kasese. Furthermore, the UDC was established in 1952 to promote manufacturing
enterprises.
In 1954 a new plan — titled A Five-Year Capital Development Plan 1955-1960 —

commissioned by Governor Sir Andrew Cohen, was produced. Among other things,
the plan proposed the establishment of the Uganda Electricity Board (UEB) and a
Uganda Credit and Savings Bank. It also made recommendations for the improvement
of agriculture, livestock and fisheries to ensure self-sufficiency in food in each district of
Uganda. This plan enabled Uganda to increase development expenditure to finance
infrastructure projects. For example, UEB raised loans from London and the World Bank to
finance the construction of Owen Falls Dam and transmission lines.
By the late 1950s, however, in view of impending political changes, the ‘affluent years’
of development expenditure were coming to an end. Cuts in the capital budget were
proposed, especially following a sharp drop in commodity prices (of cotton, coffee and
minerals) in the mid-1950s.
On the eve of Uganda’s independence, the World Bank sent a mission which proposed
a shift in emphasis from infrastructure investment — which had characterised previous
government spending (particularly on education, health and roads) — to the development
of ‘direct wealth-producing activities such as crop farming, fisheries, livestock and forest
production. 10
In its 1961 report, the World Bank proposed that “the main opportunities for economic
growth in Uganda over the next five years are in agriculture”. In particular, the bank
encouraged the new Government to concentrate on “investing in success”, by
concentrating funds and other support to farmers who showed interest in and responded
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 31

to measures to increase output. The bank proposed credit and subsidies to provide
capital for farmers, investment in raising and marketing of livestock, extension service
activities, training and research.
The bank’s team did not see great prospects for industrialisation in Uganda, citing the
small size of the home market as a dominant limiting factor. At the time, there were a
number of small plants engaged in the processing of the two major agricultural products
(cotton and coffee), a textile factory (Nyanza Textile-Nytil) set up in 1954 to consume
domestically grown cotton, a cement factory (Tororo Cement Factory), two breweries
(Nile and Uganda breweries), sawmills, two sugar factories (Lugazi and Kakira), a few
small soap factories, a small number of backyard furniture makers and other hand
craftsmen.11 The whole industrial package was, in effect, small and unable to deliver
self-sustaining economic growth.
1.2. UGANDA’S ECONOMY AT THE SUNSET OF COLONIALISM

At independence in 1962, Uganda’s total GDP was just about US$449 million (about
Ush1.65 trillion today).12 With a population of 7.2 million, the income per capita was
only US$62 (Ush207,700 today). Exports were worth US$108 million (Ush397 billion today),
while imports were worth US$96 million (Ush353 billion today). In short, the economy at
independence was small, narrow, basic and peasant-dominated.
Uganda got independence at a time when world market conditions were unfavourable,
the population was growing at a rate (2.5%) higher than growth in per capita income
(1.2%) and there was obvious need to stimulate sectors of the economy to boost growth
prospects. Yet the first post-independence government did not consider industrialisation a
development priority. Instead, Prime Minister Apollo Obote’s First Five-Year Development
Plan (1961/62-1965/66) underlined agricultural development as its priority. Industrialisation
only featured in the second five-year plan (1966/67-1970/1971).
Much of the industrial activity, however, remained in primary agro-processing. For

example, in the early 1960s, Uganda had 78 coffee hullers 13, 145 cotton ginneries and
only two factories engaged in higher value added activities such as cotton-spinning,
32 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

weaving and finishing.14 Of the 1,176 factories, 254 were involved in wood processing;
360 were in food and tobacco processing, while 233 were in the metal and engineering
sub-sector (dominated by motor vehicle and plant repairing, with 148 firms).
Obote’s economic policy thrust was dirigiste (he did not believe in the private sector
and, therefore, much of his policy was heavily interventionist). In the second half of the
1960s, policymakers were concerned with the low level of private sector savings and the
slow rate of investment, averaging 12% and 13%, respectively.
The government blamed the business community, then mainly of Asian origin, for ‘sitting on
the fence’, and being ‘anti-Uganda’ by transferring capital out of the country. So capital
account controls were adopted and strengthened, and the Common Man’s Charter
was issued in 1969 “to enable indigenous Ugandans to have a say in the economic affairs
of their country”. The blueprint was put into effect on Labour Day, 1st May 1970, when
Obote, who was now president, announced his government’s intention to nationalise
various multinational companies.
The first post-independence decade has been characterised by economic analysts as a

period of trying to establish how to:
(a) Expand investment and increase economic growth.
(b) Incorporate peasants and the rural sector into the development process.
(c) Redress the inequalities in incomes and opportunities.
(d) Bridge the regional economic gaps.
(e) Preserve political power.15
The World Bank had warned in 1961, “Uganda is now faced with the harsh fact that future
increase in the standard of living must depend on hard work in raising output.”
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 33

1.3. THE COLLAPSE OF THE ECONOMY UNDER AMIN

The economy deteriorated under the rule of Idi Amin from 1971 to 1979 and throughout
the first half of the 1980s. On assuming power, Amin embarked on policies that seriously
affected the economy and the wellbeing of Ugandans for decades. Initially, the British
recognised and supported Amin, largely because of their own economic interests.
They convinced Commonwealth members to accord Amin and Uganda recognition.
Furthermore, the IMF was involved in the preparation and support of the first budget of
Amin’s government.
The turning point was on 4th August 1972 when Amin, under decree 17/1972, declared
an economic war, revoked the residence permits of the Asians (numbering over 80,000)
and gave them 90 days to leave the country.16 He said God had told him in a dream
that he should kick them out. He claimed the Asians were sabotaging the Ugandan
economy and were exploiters whose objective was self-enrichment at the expense of
the indigenous people. Everything that went wrong with the economy was blamed on
the Asians. Actually, even today, some Ugandans silently support the criminal act — of
expelling Asians — and self-interestedly think of Amin as a nationalist, despite his brutal
dictatorial credentials. The decision taken by Amin to expel the Asians from Uganda
was unwarranted, inhumane, extreme and non-strategic. The economic war proved too
costly for Uganda. At the time of the expulsion, the Asians were engaged in commerce,
agro-industry and manufacturing.
The expulsion did little to improve income distribution or the welfare of the ‘common
man’ in Uganda. Instead, it put an end to the little economic improvements Uganda
was making at the time. Skilled managers were replaced by largely unskilled people
and inexperienced business class (the so-called mafuta-mingi)17 leading to gross
mismanagement of the economy.
The mafuta-mingi ran down the factories and shops that were handed to them after the
expulsion of the Asians. For example, the Madhvanis (owners of Kakira Sugar Factory)
left a fleet of 120 tractors in 1972, but on their return in 1983, only four were functional.
Additionally, 18,000 acres out of the 21,000 acres they left behind had been reclaimed
by the bush. Movable parts in the factory had also been taken away. As a result of this
mismanagement, the country was hit by scarcity of essential goods and services. Sugar
34 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

production, for example, reduced by 75% to only 20,000 tonnes by 1976. 18
The rampant shortages of goods and services led to high inflation, prompting Amin to
introduce several economic distortions that further ruined the economy. One of the
distortions was price control, popularly known as fixing of price. Due to shortages, prices
of essential items such as sugar, paraffin, salt and soap rapidly increased, prompting
Amin to fix maximum prices above which it was illegal and punishable to sell or buy. This
led to the emergence of black markets (magendo) involving hoarding of basic groceries
and other essential commodities. As a result of the loss of exports, there was an increased
shortage of foreign exchange. To control the foreign exchange market, Amin fixed the
rates between the shilling and foreign currencies, which led to the emergence of the
black market (Kibanda market).
Other economic distortions of the 1970s included printing of money to finance budget
deficits, causing high inflation; levying of prohibitive taxes on imports, causing smuggling,
destruction of the formal private sector, undermining of investor confidence and
alienation of Uganda from bilateral and multilateral economic bodies.
By the time Amin was overthrown in 1979, the Ugandan economy had reached an
unprecedented state of decay. Much of the country’s physical stock had been destroyed,
institutions no longer functioned, debt contracts ceased to be observed, infrastructure
had broken down and most of the skilled manpower as well as entrepreneurial talent
had fled the country.
There were rampant shortages of essential commodities such as soap, sugar, paraffin,
clothes, blankets, drugs and food. Inflation was galloping at 216% in 1979, GDP had
between 1971 and 1980 fallen by 40%, while exports had declined by 60%.
Throughout Amin’s misrule, Uganda’s GDP growth rate was negative, except in 1972 and
1976 when the economy grew by 1% (see Table 1). The period between 1971 and 1980
was a political tragedy and economic disaster for Uganda.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 35

TABLE 1. SELECTED ECONOMIC INDICATORS OF UGANDA’S ECONOMY (1971-‘80)

YEAR 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980
GDP growth (%) -0.2 1 -1 -2 -2 1 -1.6 -5.5 -11 -3.4
Investment/GDP (%) 15 11 8 11 8 6 6 8 6 6
Savings/GDP (%) 11 13 11 10 5 7 7 3 8 0
Exports/GDP (%) 19 18 16 14 8 11 8 4 3 7
Inflation (%) 4 8 24 57 20 46 89 36 216 150
Source: Bigsten and Kayizzi-Mugerwa, 1999
1.4. THE ECONOMY NRM INHERITED

When Amin left in 1979, a leadership vacuum emerged which increased the level of
insecurity, weakening all attempts at economic reform and reconstruction by the three
governments that ruled Uganda between 1979 and 1980.
Obote reclaimed power in 1980 and attempted a recovery programme to raise GDP
growth, reduce inflation and revive production. Using the dual foreign exchange rate
system, he devalued the shilling and floated it, increased agricultural produce prices and
attempted to reform the monetary and fiscal policy. However, the economic reforms
introduced were as short-lived as his government.
After 1983, Obote abandoned the recovery programme and engaged in expansionist
fiscal and monetary policies that led to resurgence of inflation and a drastic fall in GDP
growth. He printed a lot of money to finance the budget deficits, leading to hyperinflation.
For example, money supply increased by 127% in 1984, accelerating inflation by 140%
between January 1984 and January 1985. 19
The Obote government also failed to keep within set expenditure limits. For example, in
1984 alone, there was a four-fold increase in public-sector wages, financed by domestic
borrowing from banks and the central bank. Domestic borrowing increased by 70% in
1984.20 Foreign exchange controls were tightened in 1985, as arms purchases competed
with consumer imports.
By the time Obote was toppled by the military in July 1985, Ugandans were living agonising
36 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

lives. During the brief regime of Tito Okello Lutwa in 1985, the economy slipped out of
control.
Lutwa’s reign saw GDP fall by 5.5% (that is, instead of growing, Uganda’s GDP declined by
5.5%). The period beginning mid-1984 and January 1986 marked a steep deterioration in
Uganda’s economic performance. The looting and general insecurity that accompanied
the fall of Obote led to shortages of consumer goods and fuel. The rural economy was
devastated and the whole economy went into a free fall.
Therefore, when NRM came to power in 1986, it inherited a country and an economy
in ruins. The colonial (enclave) economy had been destroyed by Amin and Obote and
completely finished off during the six months of Lutwa’s leadership.
Inflation had reached 240% by the time NRM took power in January 1986, while GDP
growth had declined to 0.3%, itself being driven by the subsistence sector. 21 GDP per
capita growth was negative. For example, in 1984 per capita income fell by -3.49% and
the shrinking of incomes worsened to -6.47% in 1985. 22 Life expectancy for Ugandans had
reduced to 48 years. This is the reason Ugandans should always be very careful when
scrutinising the credentials of individuals popping up to lead our country.
Beginning in 1987, NRM instituted economic reforms to pull the country out of the economic
pit that past leaders had dumped it in. It began by abolishing price controls and allowing
prices to be determined by supply and demand in free markets. Liberal market policies
increased competition, and better prices were paid to the farmers and other producers.
This is the reason Ugandans went back to their gardens and farms to produce, while
others built factories to supply most of the essential goods we easily access today.
NRM also restored the value of the shilling through currency reforms at the beginning
of May 1987. It re-established fiscal and monetary discipline, which enabled Uganda to
achieve and maintain macroeconomic stability.
NRM also embarked on private sector-led development by founding Uganda Investment

Authority (UIA) in 1991, and privatised parastatals that were performing poorly to reduce
the fiscal drain on the national treasury and promoted private businesses.
The string of initiatives was buttressed by the creation of the Uganda Revenue Authority
(URA) in 1991 to improve revenue collection and administration. Taxes on exports
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 37

were abolished, leading to a rapid increase in foreign exchange earnings. The foreign
exchange market was liberalised to let the value of the shilling be determined largely
by foreign currency inflows from exports, other sources and the demand for foreign
currencies to buy imports. This eliminated the kibanda foreign exchange markets which
were distorting foreign exchange market, making Ugandans unable to access foreign
goods and industrial raw materials. The increased exports also greatly reduced shortages
in foreign exchange.
By the late 1990s, the reforms had helped Uganda achieve minimum recovery. Soon, the
economy moved from recovery to sustained growth. The GDP rapidly expanded from
US$3.9 billion (Ush14.4 trillion today) in 1986 to US$34.7 billion (Ush128.5 trillion) in 2019. 23
In other words, Uganda’s economy has expanded nine times since NRM took power in
1986. As a result, GDP per capita (in real terms) has increased from Ush919,100 or US$260
in 1986 to Ush3,150,000 (equivalent to US$891) in 2018/19.
Other key economic achievements are outlined on Page 40.
1.5. CURRENT STATE OF THE ECONOMY

Uganda’s economy has never been larger, healthier, diverse and full of opportunities as
it is today. Like human beings, an economy is born and it grows. At times it gets moody
(contracts) or even sick (recession), but when it recovers, it can get happy (expansion)
and at times excited (boom).
Historical facts reviewed indicate that when the Ugandan economy was born in the
early 1900s, it became stunted and stayed as an enclave for a few Europeans and Asians
surrounded by a sea of poor peasants. While in that state it was decimated by inept
leaders.
NRM found Uganda’s economy in the ‘intensive care unit’ (ICU), having suffered ‘multiple
organ failure’ due to severe violent abuse by past governments. It has since 1986 been
resuscitated to full recovery. In the past 25 years, NRM has facilitated the economy to
emerge as one of the fastest growing in the world.
38 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Uganda’s GDP per capita growth between 1997 and 2010 was better than in any of
the other sub-saharan African countries. A recent research named President Yoweri
Museveni, among the top global leaders whose individual contribution has had a
significant positive impact on their countries’ economic growth.
Between 1986 when NRM took power and 2014 (the period studied by the researchers),
Uganda’s GDP grew at an annual average rate of 6.7%, while per capita income was
at an annual average rate of 3.5%. The researchers ranked, President Museveni above
celebrated world leaders such as Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore and Park Chung Hee of
South Korea.
Before the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic hit Uganda in March 2020, the economy
was on an impressive growth path. GDP growth was at 6.5% in FY2018/19, 0.3 percentage
points higher than the growth registered in FY2017/18 (UBOS, July 2020).
Industry was the main driver of this growth, expanding at 10.8%, followed by agriculture
(5%) and services (4.9%). In recent years, the following sectors have significantly impacted
growth: manufacturing, private and public sector construction, agriculture, mainly
food crop and livestock production; regional trade, tourism, ICT and financial services.
Average commercial bank lending rate had reduced to 17.7%, while inflation was below
the target rate of 5% since October 2017. Low food prices are mainly responsible for the
low inflation, an indication of food sufficiency in the country.
1.6. HIGHLIGHTS OF SOME OF NRM’S ACHIEVEMENTS

Uganda is now ready for take-off after years of economic resuscitation and recovery. NRM
has put the country on the path of sustained growth and socio-economic transformation.
The preparations for take-off have been driven by deliberate and well-planned efforts.
NRM’s goal is to transform Uganda from a peasant to a modern, industrial and prosperous
society by 2040. The next section details some of the key achievements that have been
registered since 1986.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 39

1.6.1. ECONOMIC ACHIEVEMENTS

a. Macro-economic stability, particularly price stability and low inflation in a free market
economy.
b. Real economic growth averaging 6.1% since 1986. As a result, the economy has
expanded nearly nine times to Ush128.5 trillion (US$34.7 billion) in 2019 from Ush14.4
trillion (US$3.9 billion) in 1986.
c. GDP per capita more than tripled, rising from Ush0.92 million (US$260) in 1986 to Ush3.15
million (US$891) in FY2019/20.
d. Domestic revenue collection increased from Ush5 billion in FY1985/86 to Ush17,589

billion in FY2019/20.
e. Total export receipts of goods and services grew more than tenfold from US$502 million
(Ush1.86 trillion) in 1986 to US$6,659 million (Ush24.6 trillion) in 2019. Some of the leading
exports in 2019 value include: gold (US$1,257 million), coffee (US$438 million), fish and
its products (US$227 million), oil re-exports (US$132 million), maize (US$94 million), tea
(US$78 million), beans (US$68 million), tobacco (US$67 million), cotton (US$58 million)
and others (which fetched a total of US$1,088 million).
f. Poverty (percentage of population below national poverty line) reduced from 56.4%
in 1992 to 19.7% in 2012, although it slightly increased to 21.4% in 2017.
g. Electricity generation capacity increased from 150MW in FY1986/87 to 1,254MW by

April 2019.
h. Industry value-addition as a percentage of GDP increased from 9.6% in 1986 to 27% in

2019.
i. The number of factories grew from 80 in 1986 to 4,920 in January 2020.
j. Remittances by Ugandans working abroad increased from US$119 million (Ush440

billion) in 1999 (when tracking them began) to over US$1.4 billion (Ush5.2 trillion) in
2019.
40 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

k. Percentage of the population with access to electricity increased from 5.6% in 1991
to 42% in 2018.
l. A fast-growing middle class and young entrepreneurs.
1.6.2. SOCIO-POLITICAL ACHIEVEMENTS

a. Sustainable peace, stability and security of persons and property.
b. Life expectancy increased by 20 years in one generation, from 43 years in 1995 to 63
in 2017.
c. Maternal mortality ratio (per 100,000 live births) reduced from 506 in FY1986/87 to 336
in FY2016/17.
d. Under-five mortality rate (per 1,000) reduced from 147 in FY1986/87 to 64 in FY2016/17.
e. Average years of schooling increased from 2.5 in FY1986/87 to 6.1 in FY2016/17.
f. The total paved roads network as a percentage of total national roads more than
doubled from 8% (1,000km) in 1986 to 21.1% (5,500km) in 2019.
g. Birth rate (per 1,000 people) reduced from 49.6 to 38 in 2018.
h. Fertility rate (births per woman) reduced from 6.4 in 1989 to 4.3 in 2016.
i. In-patient malaria deaths reduced from 20 per 100,000 in 2016/2017 to 9.38 per 100,000
in 2017/18 largely due to distribution of insecticide-treated nets.
j. Houses built with permanent materials (cement, steel, tiles, iron sheets and bricks)
have improved from 40% in 1991 to 75% in 2017.
As a result of these achievements, several areas have household incomes, lifestyles and
quality of life rival those of people in lower middle-income countries. These are:
l Kampala with per capita income of US$3,400 (Ush12.4 million)
l Wakiso US$2,496 (Ush9.17 million)
l Mukono US$1,654 (Ush6.07 million)
l Mpigi US$1,624 (Ush5.96 million)
l Mbarara US$1,311 (Ush4.8 million)
l Jinja US$1,199 (Ush4.4 million)
l Masaka US$1,051 (Ush3.86 million)
NRM is going to ensure that the rest of the country joins them soon.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 41

1.7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

From its inception, NRM was aware that economic prosperity and stability guarantee
national security and political stability. Therefore, the party is cognisant of the fact that
getting the economy to benefit all Ugandans is the main unfinished business.
Economic transformation is what Uganda needs to address a host of other challenges.

Therefore, over the next five years, NRM is going to concentrate its efforts and resources
on addressing the following issues:
a. The 68.9% of households still stuck in subsistence agriculture.
b. Low productivity (yield per acre), output and quality of agricultural commodities to
sustain domestic and export markets.
c. High levels of post-harvest losses.
d. Low household incomes and rising income inequality leading to low purchasing
power.
e. High unemployment and underemployment of the young people.
f. High cost of credit, electricity and transport — which lowers competitiveness of
Ugandan products.
g. Low investment in scientific research and development (R&D) that is necessary in
informing innovation and policy.
h. Landownership and security, land use and land fragmentation.
i. High levels of corruption in government and private sector.
j. Low level of industrialisation.
k. Low labour productivity.
l. Limited export markets.
m. Quality of healthcare and education services.
n. Environmental degradation and climate change.
42 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

2. ECONOMIC STRATEGY
2.1. ECONOMIC OBJECTIVES

NRM is going to continue with its strategy of building a strong and durable economy. In
line with its Ten-Point Programme, NRM government will further develop the economy
with the following specific objectives:
a. Broadening the economic base by providing and creating economic opportunities in

all regions of Uganda.
b. Creating an integrated and self-sustaining economy based on import substitution

and export-oriented growth.
c. Establishing a monetised and formalised economy: graduating households from the

informal and subsistence levels into the commercial economy.
d. Achieving the lower middle-income status.
e. Generating productive jobs.
2.2. ECONOMIC FOCUS

During the next five years, NRM’s focus will be on creating more productive jobs and
wealth to ensure the prosperity of all Ugandans. Efforts will be concerted towards
harnessing factors of production.
See Box 1 on the next page.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 43

BOX 1: ADDRESSING THE MAIN FACTORS OF PRODUCTION
NRM has been working hard to improve the five factors of production (FOP) —
land, labour, capital, entrepreneurship and knowledge. We have made strides in
improving market as another factor that is critical in making the five FOP relevant.
This box summarises what NRM has so far done on each and the way forward.
Land: The land area of Uganda is 241,038sq.km. Land, which includes other
natural resources like minerals, water and forests, is a key factor of production,
particularly for Ugandans, most of whom are still in the agrarian economy. The key
challenges include illegal evictions from land, affecting occupants of bibanja on
mailo and public land, land fragmentation and poor land use practices. All these
are worsened by corruption in the land registry. To address these, we have started
to issue Certificates of Occupancy for bibanja holders on mailo land, Certificates
of Customary Ownership (CCOs), freehold titles for landowners, digitised the land
registry and taken services closer to the people by opening up zonal offices. NRM
has also increased the amount of money allocated to the Land Fund to acquire
land for lawful and bona fide occupants to regularise their land rights using a
formula of willing buyer-willing seller. NRM will also clean up the land registry and
cancel multiple titles on the same land and remain with the genuine ones. Other
interventions to be implemented during the 2021-26 term are included in Section 4,
Pages 256-259 of this manifesto.
Labour: To develop this critical factor of production, NRM introduced Education-for-

All policy through the Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary
Education (USE) programmes. We also bridged the gender gap, enabling more
females to go to school and join the labour market. To enhance employability and
labour productivity, NRM has put emphasis on teaching science subjects, skilling,
innovation and research as well as investment in immunisation and health to ensure
Ugandans do not die of avoidable causes. In the next term, NRM is going to put more
emphasis on increasing skilling of labour through vocational and apprenticeship
training. A skilling programme for youth and women has been put in place through
the establishment of centres across the country to train them. Details of enhancing
labour productivity are included in Section 2.2.6, Pages 70-73 of this manifesto.
44 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Capital: To improve availability, access and cost of capital, NRM has capitalised
Uganda Development Bank (UDB), Uganda Development Corporation (UDC),
Microfinance Support Centre, Emyooga, Women Entrepreneurship Fund, Youth
Livelihood Fund and SACCOs. These have been and will continue to offer grants
and/or loans at interest rates not exceeding 12% per year. Details are provided on
Pages 59 and 108-109 of this manifesto.
Entrepreneurship: NRM has been at the forefront of developing the entrepreneurial

capacity and talents of Ugandans, individually and collectively, to create wealth
in their own self-interest but, in the process, create wealth and prosperity for all
Ugandans. We initiated several funds to support entrepreneurship including, Women
Entrepreneurs Fund, Innovation Fund and the Youth Venture Capital Fund, which have
helped tens of thousands of youth to develop income-generating activities. NRM also
privatised and liberalised the economy to create more space for the private sector.
This has enabled entrepreneurially-minded people in Uganda and those from outside
Uganda to take up opportunities vacated by the Government to do profitable
business. This manifesto outlines a number of interventions NRM is going to implement
or scale up to continue building the capacity of local entrepreneurs and FDIs.
Knowledge: Most of the richest countries in the world have developed on account
of depending on what has come to be known as the knowledge economy. This
is the economy built by scientists, innovators, designers and a skilled labour force.
NRM is determined to build a knowledge-based economy. Our efforts are going to
be invested in supporting Science, Technology, Engineering and Innovation (STEI) to
build technology hubs through relevant research centres like Kiira Motors and UIRI.
See Pages 179-194 - Science, Technology, Engineering and Innovation.
Market: To increase the market for Ugandan goods and services, NRM will increase
the purchasing power of Ugandans who currently are underconsuming and negotiate
with East Africa and Africa at large to fully implement the common market protocols
(agreements) to integrate markets for EAC, COMESA and AfCFTA. We shall also
continue to work with Africa to negotiate for bigger external markets in the US, China,
India, Russia and EU. We will also broaden the market for our products by deepening
industrialisation beyond the production of primary industrial products like brown sugar
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 45

and liquid milk to tertiary products like industrial sugar, casein and industrial starch.
Lowering costs of our products through lowering the cost of inputs such as electricity,
transport, money and observance of phytosanitary requirements, will also make our
products competitive on the world market. Strategies to address all these issues are
well laid out in this manifesto.
NRM understands that productive employment and decent work for all, particularly
young people and women, is going to be the most effective route out of poverty.
Creating more jobs and wealth increases the purchasing power of the people which is
good for business. This guarantees market for companies offering services and products
as many more can afford them because they have money to spend. So when more
Ugandans get wealthy, it is good for everyone.
“Wealth is evidently not the good we are seeking, for it is merely useful and for the sake of
something else,” Aristotle, the ancient philosopher, once said. Aware of this, NRM wants
wealth-creation, and maximising prosperity everywhere, that will truly lead to broad-
based peace among people and the nation.
Formal well-paying employment delivers a good income, provides security and social
protection for workers and their families. It also offers prospects for personal development,
and guarantees equal opportunities for all and thus fosters social cohesion. Therefore,
during NRM’s next kisanja (term of office), jobs will be a central goal in each and every
programme/project funded by the Government. For every shilling spent, there will be a
requirement to report the number and quality of jobs created.
NRM will promote “job-rich” growth and wealth creation. This will be growth and wealth
that generate more and better jobs for the benefit of all. To achieve this, NRM is going
to set up new industries, while increasing the productivity of existing ones as elaborated
below.
46 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

2.2.1. ACCELERATING THE INDUSTRIALISATION AGENDA

NRM is fully aware that economic betterment of the people will depend, not on the
improvement of agriculture alone, but also developing other sectors of the economy.
Since its inception, the party has been pursuing economic transformation of Uganda
through industrial development. While in the bush (1981–1986), before taking power, NRM
developed the Ten-Point Programme, which emphasised the need to build industries
that use locally produced inputs.
NRM’s strategy has always been four-fold:
a. Diversification of the economy from overreliance on agriculture, especially on the CCTTs

(coffee, cotton, tea and tobacco).
b. Extensive import substitution in order to reduce the import bill, especially on basic
consumer goods.
c. Processing of raw materials to add value.
d. Building basic industries. (see Box 2 on Real vs Vulnerable Economy).
BOX 2: REAL VS VULNERABLE ECONOMY
NRM has been advising Ugandans to concentrate on the nine fundamental

human needs of society: food, clothes, shelter, medicines, defence,
physical infrastructure (electricity, roads, rail and ICT), health, education
and spirituality. The demand for these needs is not ephemeral; it is durable
and eternal. Below is how Uganda is performing in meeting them:
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 47

1 FOOD
According to the 2014 population and housing census, there are five million Ugandan
households farming 17.2 million acres of the 40 million acres of arable land. These grow
5 million tonnes of maize; 10 million tonnes of bananas; 1.76 million metric tonnes of
beans plus other plant protein-bearing crops (such as cowpeas) and 218,000 tonnes
of Irish potatoes. Other food crops grown include sweet potatoes (2.5 million tonnes);
cassava (4.1 million tonnes); millet (392,000 tonnes); sugarcane (6 million tonnes) that
give us 500,000 metric tonnes of sugar a year; tea (60 million processed kilogrammes)
and coffee, whose output has grown to 7.75 million 60kg bags.
Ugandans rear 14 million head of cattle, 14 million goats, 50 million chicken as well as
one million sheep, while some 447,000 tonnes of fish are caught annually. These are
14 production lines of different foods or beverage on which NRM will concentrate
its focus and maximise value to feed the country, region and international markets.
Over the next five years, the following actions will be implemented focusing on 14
production lines:
a) Add value to maize to produce flour, animal feeds, starch for the pharmaceutical
industry on which US$20 million is spent per year and ethanol as a source of energy.
b) Support scientists like Mrs. Florence Muranga to add value to bananas (matooke).
She’s making high-value products such as banana flour to replace wheat for
baking; starch for pharmaceutical needs and eshaande natural juice.
c) Add value to cassava to make fortified cassava flour, ethanol, pharmaceutical

grade starch and starch for baking bread to replace the unhealthy imported
wheat that is costing over US$300 million annually. Biodegradable packaging
materials can also be made from cassava.
d) Add value to beans to make bean cakes, baked and canned beans, noodles,
instant extruded bean sauce, cooked and frozen beans.
e) Out of Irish potatoes, we shall get chips, crisps, noodles, starch, potato flour, glue,
animal feeds, ethanol and glucose.
48 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

f) Out of sweet potatoes, we can get starch, puree, noodles, high glucose syrup,
flour bread and animal feeds.
g) From millet, we can get flour, animal feeds and millet hulls for the textile industry,
fermented porridge (obushera obutaire) and alcohol.
h) Out of sugarcane, we can get raw sugar, refined sugar, molasses, bagasse,
ethanol, gasohol (ethanol mixed with petrol), electricity by burning bagasse, gin
and rum, fibre board (ceiling boards), particle board, furfural and acetic acid,
manure and bagasse ash.
i) Apart from milk, beef and skins from cattle, we can also get powdered milk, butter,
ghee, yoghurt, cheese, ice cream, sour milk, cream, casein and lactogens, most
of which we are still importing, costing the country over US$4.6 million per year. The
global market for dairy products is worth US$718.9 billion. NRM is going to increase
Uganda’s share in that market by producing more milk and adding value to it.
j) Add value to beef, for example by making tinned and salted beef for the army
and export. A kilo of beef is US$17 in the UK and up to US$200 in Japan, compared
to US$2 in Uganda. What is true of beef, is true of chicken, goats, sheep (mutton)
and pigs (pork and sausages). The global demand for these meats is high, worth
US$945.7 billion in 2018 and has been forecast to increase to US$1,142.9 billion
by 2023. NRM is going to support investment in these supply chains to increase
Uganda’s share of the huge beef trade.
k) For coffee, under NRM guidance and funding, Uganda has managed to increase
the volumes produced to 7.75 million 60kg bags from about 3 million. However,
only about US$438.5 million was earned in 2019 from 4 million 60kg bags sold
mainly because coffee is sold in unprocessed form. NRM is going to invest more
in value-addition, by supporting the private sector to roast,grind and package
Uganda’s coffee, which would easily boost earnings to US$4 billion.
l) Tea growing and production will be boosted to increase earnings. Through

Uganda Development Corporation (UDC), a number of tea factories have been
supported to increase their processing capacity. This is in addition to providing
seedlings to tea growers.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 49

m) For cocoa, the global chocolate industry is worth US$43.13 billion. But Uganda is
only earning US$77.55 million (2019) from exporting 35,318 tonnes of unprocessed
cocoa beans. NRM is going to invest more in cocoa growing to fetch more
foreign exchange and add value so that Uganda exports chocolate instead
of cocoa beans. The construction of a chocolate factory in Bundibugyo is in
advanced stages.
n) As far as fish is concerned, Uganda earns US$176.5 million from processed fish
from the 12 factories currently operating. If bad fishing methods are stopped,
the catch could increase to 700,000 metric tonnes annually, which is higher than
the present 470,000 metric tonnes. Exportable Nile Perch would be about 45,000
metric tonnes. This would rake in US$301.6 million annually.
2 CLOTHING
Among the raw materials Uganda is endowed with is leather for making items
like shoes, belts, handbags, jackets and car seats. Yet the country spends, on
average, US$328.9 million annually on these items. Besides, the global demand
for leather and its products is US$72.4 billion. Currently, Uganda produces 185,000
bales of cotton every year. Cotton plants produce fibre for cloth, cotton seeds for
vegetable oil and making animal feed and linters for manufacturing gunpowder
(nitro-cellulose). The global business of textiles and leather products is worth US$1,015
billion. To tap into this big market, NRM is going to focus on supporting production
of fabric to make cloth (weaving and knitting) and fibre for making packaging and
toilet paper. Already, blankets and bedsheets are being made in Uganda. In the
near future, the petroleum industry will provide synthetic fibre such as polyester that
will be mixed with cotton to produce strong textiles. For now, Uganda imports the
polyester fibres. Therefore, the contribution to clothing the human being in Uganda
and abroad will be based on cotton and leather, whose raw materials are in plenty.
3 SHELTER
In the housing sector, Uganda is already producing some of the materials
needed for modern houses. Cement, bricks, tiles and steel bars (mitayimbwa) are
locally made. Cement is made from limestone available in the country with reserves
50 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

of over one billion tonnes. Tiles and bricks are being made from Uganda’s clay
with numerous deposits in the country. Unfortunately, for corrugated iron sheets
(mabaati), Uganda is still using imported steel sheets that consume US$444.6 million
of the foreign exchange. By developing iron ore (obutare) into an indigenous steel
industry, this haemorrhage will be eliminated and Uganda could export iron sheets
to other African countries. The global demand for steel is US$2.5 trillion. The only
product needed to make Uganda self-reliant in materials needed for modern
housing is sheet glass, which is manufactured from sand. Uganda is spending
US$27.95 million on importing glass for housing and bottling. The sheet glass is going
to be produced in Uganda to save on foreign exchange and earn money from
exporting it to other African countries. Uganda also has granite, over 560 million
tonnes of marble exists in Rupa sub-county (Matheniko ─ Karamoja). Marble is used
in making floors that can last forever with its demand globally at US$52 billion (2016)
and forecasts say it will grow to US$64 billion in 2023.
4 MEDICINE, VETERINARY AND CROP DRUGS

Medicines and medical equipment currently take up US$383 million, including
veterinary drugs and equipment. Agricultural inputs — fertilisers (US$38.9 million),
insecticides, fungicides, rodenticides, herbicides and the like (US$82.6 million) —
take up to US$121.6 million. The global demand for human medicine, veterinary
drugs and vaccines for humans and livestock is US$1.4 trillion. Africa is not partaking
in this business. NRM plans to tap into this sector through funding of research and
attracting investors. Already there are some pharmaceutical companies, including
Cipla Quality Chemicals, which is producing ARVs that it sells to several African
countries.
5 DEFENCE AND SECURITY

NRM is known for its expertise in securing Uganda and Africa. However, Africa
continues to squander a lot of money on importing weapons. In FY2018/19, Africa
spent US$40.2 billion on the purchase of weapons, most of them ineffective judging
by the terrorists ravaging the continent. Uganda is going to spend US$1.8 billion
in three years up to 2023 on modernising the armed forces. This haemorrhage is
going to be stopped. NRM is going to ensure that arms and security equipment such
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 51

as street cameras and bombs are manufactured in Uganda. Already, Luwero

Industries in Nakasongola is producing some, including Infantry Fighting Vehicles
(IFV) for the army.
6 INFRASTRUCTURE
To run factories to produce various basic needs mentioned above, electricity
and transport infrastructure (roads, railway lines, airports and waterways) are
required. So far, the necessary roads have been built and more will be constructed
and maintained. Uganda’s scientists are making electric buses. NRM is going to
invest Ush400 billion in building a vehicle industry.
Already, NRM government has invested heavily in electricity generation. The

next phase is going to be the transmission of the electricity to industrial parks
and homes. There are many investors manufacturing transformers, cables and
meters to solve our energy cost problems. This shows how linkages to increased
generation capacity are spurring industries, including manufacturing and supply
of equipment for power transmission. Some of these will be linked to the copper
mines at Kilembe to solve the problem of raw materials. Uganda is going to purify
the copper into 99.9% pure cathode instead of producing blister copper (of 94%)
to be used in the cable industry at Lugazi. NRM’s aim is to build the heavy industry
and start making turbines for power generation.
7 EDUCATION
Apart from literacy and numeracy, NRM has been investing in scientific
and technical skills to run a modern economy. Already, a commendable job of
building the educational infrastructure has been done. So far, there are 7,308
pre-primary schools, 36,285 primary schools (government and private), 5,553
secondary schools (government and private), 1,543 technical and tertiary schools
(government and private) and 49 universities (government and private). The
skeleton of this infrastructure for numeracy, literacy, skilling and intellectuality
is already in existence. What is needed next is deepening the content. NRM is
encouraging domestic production of scholastic materials such as books, chalk,
paper, pens and pencils.
52 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

8 HEALTH
This involves aspects like immunisation, hygiene, nutrition, vector-control,
treatment and maternal health. In order to do all this, NRM built 1,079 HCIIIs, 182
HCIVs, 53 district hospitals, 14 regional referral hospitals, five national referral hospitals
and five super specialised hospitals. Building this capacity is both an opportunity
and a challenge. Most of the medical supplies and vaccines must be made in
Uganda so that importing stops.
9 SPIRITUALITY, MORALITY AND HUMANISM

This comes from spirituality (the love of God) and culture, which allows oneness
and peaceful co-existence (obuntubulamu). Both religion and culture play a
crucial role here. If religious and cultural groups emphasise the double mandate of
establishing “dominion over nature” and “multiplying and filling the earth”, morality
will play its part. Morality plays an important role in raising economic fortunes.
It increases trust among people, which reduces uncertainty and transaction
costs, enhances the efficiency of exchange and encourages specialisation and
investment in ideas, human and physical capital. In short, morality will enable us
to develop effective, low-cost enforcement of contracts as well as strengthen
social cohesion, democratic governance and honesty of public administration. If
government leaders, judges and bureaucrats are corrupt, other Ugandans can
more easily justify and rationalise their own dishonest behaviour.
NRM understands that when planning for these nine fundamental human needs,
we should not plan for Uganda only. This is because the internal market is not
enough. NRM is going to plan for the African and international markets, based on
comparative advantage in a dynamic manner (after partners have fully developed
their potential). Therefore, Uganda may not have to carry out each and every one
of the activities above. We shall pick some and other African countries will pursue
others. Then, we can trade among ourselves and with others. It will all depend on
the competitiveness of the respective countries. This is why, NRM government found
it wiser to base the factory for fabricating the oil pipeline in Tanga, Tanzania, as long
as the steel is still coming from outside.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 53

Industrialisation has always been one of our top priorities to transform Uganda’s economy
and push it into middle-income status. Over the next five years, NRM will aim at enhancing
household incomes and improving the quality of life of all Ugandans by focusing on
import substitution, industrialisation and export-oriented production. The target is to
increase the contribution of the industrial sector to over a third of GDP, the share of
Ugandans employed in industry to 26% and the manufactured exports as a percentage
of total exports to 50%.
NRM plans to develop a well-serviced industrial park in each of the following towns:
l Arua l Iganga l Bushenyi
l Lira l Jinja l Rakai
l Gulu l Masaka l Mbale
l Soroti l Nakasongola l Mbarara
l Moroto l Tororo l Kabale
l Hoima l Fort Portal l Luwero-Nakaseke
l Buliisa l Kasese l Mubende
Others are going to be built in Nwoya, Pakwach, Oraba, Yumbe and Oyam.
So far, nine industrial parks have been established, these are:
l Kampala Industrial and Business Park (KIBP) popularly known as Namanve Industrial Park.
l Luzira Industrial and Business Park.
l Bweyogerere Industrial Estate.
l Jinja Industrial and Business Park.
l Sino-Uganda Mbale Industrial Park.
l Soroti Industrial and Business Park.
l Karamoja Industrial and Business Park.
l Kasese Industrial and Business Park.
l Mbarara Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Park.
54 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

In total, NRM is going to build 31 industrial parks, including four regional science and
technology industrial parks. In each of these industrial parks, there will be sheds to
accommodate industrialists and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that cannot afford
to construct their own structures.
The private sector has taken advantage of the good policies and business environment
and developed industrial parks, such as:
l Liao Shen Industrial Park in Kapeeka, Nakaseke district
(the fastest growing in the East African region).
l Matugga Industrial Park.
l Lugazi Industrial Park.
l Buikwe Industrial Park.
We are going to develop industrial clusters, promote geographical concentrations

of interconnected industries with their specialised suppliers, service providers and
associated institutions. Industrial parks are going to be linked by complementarity and
commonalities as well as shared needs for technology, infrastructure and skills. For
instance, each park shall have a Job Centre (for the local population seeking jobs in the
factories and where factories post jobs); Procurement Centre (where industries can post
required services and goods to be supplied to them); an Industry Clinic (for matters of
advocacy and policy requests from factories); a One-stop e-centre run in co-ordination
with UIA (for processing licences and application for utility connections) and a Training
Facility (having conference halls and meeting rooms) where industries can train their
people.
Emphasis on building industrial parks will be put on reinforcing and building upon
established and emerging clusters rather than creating new ones. For example, several
industrial clusters have been naturally forming and evolving in the past decade along
Jinja, Gulu and Hoima roads. These are being stimulated by availability of raw materials,
agro-climatic conditions, proximity to the market or the return to a location of an
entrepreneur with specific skills and ambitions. Others are being driven by the history of
industrial location, which generated a reservoir of external economies of scale such as
those in the Jinja and Kampala industrial areas. NRM is going to support these clusters
with good infrastructure (electricity, access to rail transport, roads and affordable credit).
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 55

Our journey to industrialise Uganda is now clear to all and very well planned. We started
by closing the infrastructural gap to spur industrial development. We are continuing
with it as we support the private sector to invest in manufacturing. NRM is now going to
effectively invest in the development of industrial parks, make effective use of UDB and
revise the national trade policy as well as the EAC Common External Tariff so that they
support industrialisation efforts better. We are now ready for take-off.
NRM is also going to put more emphasis on promoting science education to produce the
skilled labour needed for industrialisation. Already, there has been a rapid emergence of
SME industries in different parts of the country. The existing companies in the manufacturing
sector such as Roofings Group, Mukwano Industries, Nice House of Plastics, Steel Rolling
Mills and Kalangala Palm Oil have registered tremendous growth. By January 2020, the
country had over 4,920 factories.
Roofings alone now consumes 40MW of electricity and it is one of the top exporters and
revenue generators. As a result of this growth, thousands of jobs have been created.
Data from UIA shows that about 50,000 industrial jobs have been created since 2008.
Furthermore, we are having import substitutes in the country. For example, transformers
that were previously imported are now assembled in Uganda.
NRM wants to expand the variety and sophistication of Uganda’s current industries. The
manufacturing sector is currently concentrated in eight groups, namely: food processing
(40%); beverages and tobacco (20%); chemicals, paint, soap and foam products (10%);
textiles, clothing and footwear (4%); paper products (3%); bricks and cement (8%) metals
plus related products (8%); and miscellaneous products (7%).
The Economic Complexity Index (ECI) — used to analyse the level of sophistication of a
country’s exports — indicates that although Uganda’s exports have increased in number
and diversity, currently standing at 183 products, the level of sophistication of its exports is
still very low. Over the next five years, NRM will develop more tertiary industries to increase
the country’s ECI, competitiveness and integration in global value and supply chains.
We are going to develop our local industrial design in areas of car manufacturing,
furniture production, tailoring and all artisanal industries such as metal fabrication and
56 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

craft making. These industrial design hubs will be coined within the existing and new
institutions to provide industrial skills that will support the existing informal and formal
sector of machine, furniture and equipment production and development. This concept
of industrial design hubs has worked well with Kiira Motors and we already see products
such as the electric car. With this intervention, we also hope that our local artisanal industry
in tailoring, manufacturing and welding will result in improved quality and competitive
products to match the imported products. The industrial design hubs will also have
intellectual property offices to ensure that the products and the product development
processes of Ugandans are protected.
Competitiveness is no longer dependent on production factor costs (comparative

advantage) only, nor on specific technological advantage, but critically more on
continuous innovation capabilities. These include high level of skills, competencies and
learning, efficient and affordable communications and transport infrastructure as well
as a supportive and enabling infrastructure. Furthermore, it involves increased skilling
of labour through tertiary education, vocational and apprenticeship training to avoid
the current skill mismatches. Industrial players are going to be closely involved in the
development of training curricula and practical skills training.
The Government will build the capacity of the Uganda National Bureau of Standards
(UNBS) to enforce quality standards on locally produced and imported goods to
completely stamp out the substandard products and counterfeits (imported and locally
produced) trading freely in our markets. The standards body should also act as an advisor
for the startups on how to improve standards, which must be continuously reviewed and
harmonised with EAC regional standards.
In the next kisanja, NRM will co-ordinate efforts in industrialising Uganda by ensuring
that government agencies do not duplicate roles. We shall consolidate funds meant for
industrialisation investments that are scattered across Ministries, Departments, Agencies
(MDAs) and utilise them better.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 57

2.2.2. IMPORT SUBSTITUTION AND EXPORT PROMOTION

Import substitution is critical. Investors can produce locally so that the foreign exchange
we have been wasting on imported goods is used to acquire capital equipment required
by our fast-growing manufacturing sector.
An Import Substitution Action Plan has been completed, supported by Buy Uganda Build
Uganda (BUBU) policy, Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets (PPDA) law and local
content law to guide its implementation.
The President has in the past directed the implementation of the BUBU policy, which
has resulted in textiles manufacturers producing uniforms for the army, police and prison
forces.
A recent study found out that Uganda is losing a lot of productive capacity due to
high imported content in domestically produced goods. The largest multiplier leakages
were found in manufacturing, where about 38% is lost. This means for every Ush10,000,
Ugandans spend on locally manufactured products, Ush3,800 is ‘donated’ to countries
such as China, India, and Turkey where the imports come from.
The research also found that industrial production in Uganda is largely dependent on
imported inputs. This has weakened Uganda’s ability to create jobs for the young people
since most jobs that should have been created are being externalised through the
importation of raw materials and finished goods.
The COVID-19 pandemic and its associated lockdown has accentuated the role of the
Government in steering the economy. NRM set out to turn the misfortunes of COVID-19 into
an opportunity by converting the country’s huge import bill to a boost for the domestic
manufacturing capacity.
Import substitution is going to be one of the key development strategies over the next
five years.
58 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

The Uganda Police Force Factory in Kampala.

The factory has helped eliminate the cost of importing police uniforms.
WAY FORWARD
a. NRM is going to stop the ongoing haemorrhage of state coffers by supporting industries
that use locally sourced raw materials to produce most of the goods that we import.
We shall also locally produce some of the intermediate goods we import such as
plastic and paper packaging, industrial grade sugar, industrial alcohol, starch, iron
and steel.
b. Working with the private sector, NRM is going to establish and expand production
lines that address basic human needs and are within existing capabilities. These
will include production lines for the manufacture of food, agrochemicals, starch,
pharmaceuticals (medicines), construction materials (cement, aluminium and steel),
furniture, ceramics, kitchenware and plastic packaging.
c. NRM is going to put more money in UDB to provide affordable and long-term
capital to agriculture, agro-processing and other manufacturers. This financial year
(2020/21), a total of Ush1,045 billion has been allocated through UDB to support
import substitution industrialisation, agro-industrialisation (value-addition), and other
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 59

sectors such as education, health and tourism. This is in addition to the Ush400 billion
already invested in the bank to capitalise it. We are also studying the possibility of
establishing a National Farmers’ Bank.
d. For SMEs, starting FY2020/21, NRM government created a Ush250 billion COVID-19
Recovery Fund to support them through selected financial institutions, particularly
government-owned banks and SACCOs. This is intended to support SMEs that do not
fall under Emyooga and do not qualify for the UDB Fund.
e. To ensure that development and economic opportunities are widely distributed

across all geographical regions of Uganda, a “special development fund” is to be
created under UDC. This will deliberately encourage location of manufacturing and
other economic opportunities in each sub-region of the country, for instance Acholi,
Ankole, Bukedi, Bunyoro, Busoga, Buganda, Bugisu, Sebei, Karamoja, Kigezi, Lango,
Teso, Tooro/Rwenzori and West Nile. These industries will be adding value to what is
locally produced in each sub-region in the same way we invested in the fruit factory
in Teso, Atiak Sugar Factory in Acholi as well as tea in Kigezi and Tooro.
Atiak Sugar Factory in Amuru district
60 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

f. NRM, through UDC, is going to continue investing in strategic sectors, either directly or
by co-investing with the private sector, like what was done with Atiak Sugar Factory,
Mabale Tea, Kigezi Tea and many others. Over Ush1,800 billion will be provided over
the next five years to set up industries in all regions of the country. In addition, this
is expected to generate employment as follows: 82,300 direct, 80,300 indirect and
over 23,000 induced jobs. In the current FY2020/21, Ush138 billion in UDC will boost
strategic sectors. This money will be invested in Soroti Fruit Factory, Mpanga Tea
Factory, Mutuma Commercial Agency (Cotton), Budadiri Arabic Coffee Ltd, Kika
Coffee Factory, integrated lime, cement and marble plants in Moroto, Bukona Agro-
processors Ltd (ethanol in Nwoya). The money will also go to veterinary medicine and
vaccines at Namanve, Yumbe Mango Factory, cassava processing factories (Acholi
Bur, Bargadhai, Kibuku), Gamma Irradiation Facility in Entebbe, a coffee factory in
Kazo, farmer-owned sugar factory in Busoga, grain storage factories in Busoga and
Bunyoro sub-regions, potato factories in Kabale and Kisoro. In addition, the funds will
be used to carry out feasibility studies in various green fields.
g. NRM is also going to reduce the cost of electricity and make it more reliable and
affordable, particularly for factories.
h. We are also going to continue reducing the cost of transport by developing water
transport and revamping the railway to ferry produce on Lake Victoria to Mombasa
and Dar es Salaam ports.
i. NRM shall also set up industries such as motor vehicle assembling plants and electronic
products; manufacture of metals like simple spare parts; iron and steel; textile yarn
and fabrics; paper and paper boards; sanitary fittings, plumbing and fixture fittings;
beddings and petrochemicals based on our emerging oil industry and others.
j. For the iron and steel industry in particular, through the Uganda Railways Corporation
(URC), NRM is going to work with the private sector to provide a dedicated ship to
transport coal from Tanzania to Uganda to support the local production of liquid steel.
Incentives to reduce the cost of transportation of the iron ore from Muko and other
mines for processing will also be provided. This will reduce the importation of billets. In
the medium term, we will develop the natural gas pipeline from Tanzania to Uganda
to support the local production of liquid steel.
k. It is important to note that NRM is not going to promote import substitution at the
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 61

expense of exports. We are going to invest in and support private sector industries with
massive untapped export potential, particularly in agro-industry, light manufacturing
and value-addition to our minerals. Emphasis will be put on growing both secondary
and tertiary agro-industries, particularly for coffee, maize, animal products, beans,
sugarcane, cocoa and fish. Research has shown that if we fully exploit these products
alone, we will create a total of over 1.9 million jobs (44% of them being direct and the
rest indirect). Onto these we shall add cassava, banana, potatoes, millet and tea to
complete the 14 production lines the NRM chairman and presidential candidate has
guided the country to prioritise.
l. In his article, Real vs Vulnerable Economy, President Museveni effectively outlines
Uganda’s import substitution strategy, pointing out areas to focus on: cassava (starch,
ethanol and animal feeds), banana flour and starch to replace wheat flour that
consumes US$300 million in foreign exchange annually. Others include surgical masks,
scrub suits, rubber gloves, test kits and the vaccines, drugs such as hydroxy-choloroquine
and industrial grade sugar (costing the country US$40.251 million annually).
m. NRM is going to continue building the capacity of local companies and young
entrepreneurs to build consortia, special purpose vehicles (SPVs) as well as business
linkages to develop SMEs. We will also encourage large companies to partner with SMEs
and farmers to promote exports to regional and international markets. Individualism is
the disease that is incapacitating/killing Ugandan companies.
n. NRM will aggressively, but in a planned way, commercialise agriculture to raise
productivity such that raw materials for industries are produced and supplied. We
are going to strengthen the ‘aggregation model’ by reinstating co-operatives where
they are and establishing new ones where they were missing. This will strengthen
agricultural extension to ensure organised production, quality assurance, agriculture
insurance, farmers’ bargaining power, marketing and raise output needed for industrial
development.
o. NRM is going to support and promote ICT solutions and digitisation services for
businesses to cut costs and work remotely through e-visa, e-tax, e-driving permits and
other government services.
p. We are going to support the development of local industrial packaging materials that
in many cases take over 40% of the cost of pharmaceuticals, packed food products
and other manufactured products. In addition, capital investment incentives will be
62 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

provided for the production of pharmaceutical and food-grade foils and cartons.
q. To steer the private sector away from speculation and rent-seeking behaviour, NRM is
going to develop and sustain reciprocal control mechanisms within the incentives. We
are going to package all the incentive programmes with conditionality, sunset clauses,
inbuilt programme reviews, monitoring, benchmarking and periodic evaluation. Non-
abiding companies, especially those that abuse NRM’s support will have offered
subsidies cancelled and asked to refund at a commercial interest rate.
r. We are going to continue with our policy of attracting foreign direct investments
(FDIs). The new Investment Code (2019) encourages FDIs to invest in 26 priority areas/
sectors as defined in the Second Schedule of the Act. The priority areas include:
l Agro-processing l Food processing
l Medical appliances l Building materials
l Household appliances l Telecommunications
l Furniture l Logistics and warehousing
l Tourism l Information technology
l Mining l Commercial farming
l Ceramics l Steel industry
l Oil milling l Real estate development
l Transport l Textile and leather
l Packaging l Glass and plastic products
l Lighting l Construction and building
l Pharmaceuticals l Paper production
l Chemical industries l Automobile manufacturing and assembling
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 63

s. To ensure effective implementation of our programmes, we will reform government

bureaucracy. The days of slow implementers of our good programmes and plans are
numbered. Recent research shows weak leadership in ministries and agencies, poor
planning and budget indiscipline, corruption as well as weak oversight to be the top
four causes of poor implementation. All these are simple human factors that should
not delay our transformation. We are going to rationalise ministries and agencies and
give civil servants a pay rise to improve implementation discipline. We shall also study
reforms that will elicit more effort and increased productivity among both public and
private workers such as piece rate (pay based on output rather than hours).
t. In order to promote motor vehicle, tractor and other assemblers in Uganda through
the BUBU policy, we will buy from them an agreed number and type of products
annually.
u. NRM is going to work with traders so as to turn them into exporters as opposed to
importers by encouraging them to set up distribution units in other countries in order
to export Ugandan-made goods. With their knowledge in international trade, they
are best suited to promote Ugandan goods in other markets in Africa and elsewhere.
2.2.3. A CASE FOR GROWING THE LOCAL PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY

In 2019, Uganda imported US$362.7 million worth of medical supplies and pharmaceutical
products. This haemorrhage must stop. Of the total drugs value that Uganda imports,
54.9% goes to mixed and unmixed drugs for general treatment and disease prevention,
16.1% is for human vaccines, 6.7% for antibiotics while 3.7% goes to penicillin-based drugs.
Some of the most expensive drugs imported are biological drugs because of limited
technological capacity.
In addition, Uganda is endowed with a rich biodiversity that our herbalists have historically
exploited to handle our common ailments. Working with scientists, NRM will develop this
potential.
64 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

President Museveni on a tour of

Cipla Quality Chemicals Industry
PROGRESS
Uganda needs more drugs to deal with the key killer diseases that are affecting
Ugandans, namely HIV/AIDS and malaria. NRM has supported scientists, notably, those in
Cipla Quality Chemical Industries Limited (CQCIL), to replace imported drugs for HIV and
malaria. The support included an off-taker agreement where the Government committed
to buy all ARV drugs from CQCIL. Other interventions in the sector included President
Yoweri Museveni directing the Ministry of Health not to import any drug or medicine that
is manufactured locally. This was followed by the Government putting a levy of 12% on
the importation of drugs or medicines that are locally manufactured. As a result, the
scientists have succeeded in negotiating the development of biological drugs.
As a way of promoting our traditional and complementary medicine, NRM government

enacted Traditional and Complementary Medicine Act in 2019. The rich vegetation of
Uganda offers various medicinal advantages as we can trace far back in history. Our
ancestors had remedies for almost all diseases. NRM government is going to take big
steps in promoting the research and development of safe complementary medicines to
boost the health sector. This will enable the gifted natural healers to be guided, through
clinical trials, to develop commercial products whose safety and efficacy meet world
health standards.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 65

The Natural Chemotherapeutic Research Institute (NCRI) was awarded a grant worth
Ush2.04 billion with the immediate objective of enabling it to research and develop a
remedy for COVID-19. The long-term aim, however, is to facilitate development of safe
herbal drugs for treatment of various diseases. NCRI is currently laying emphasis on bee
products and Warbugia Ugandensis (Mukuza Nume).
WAY FORWARD
NRM government will promote the development of the pharmaceutical industry through
the following interventions:
a. Provide incentives to promote locally manufactured drugs and medicines. For

instance, NRM will sign off-taker agreements with local drug manufacturers on a
specified amount of drugs for a certain period, to support the growth of the sector.
b. Partner with the private sector in the production of human medicines, especially the
lucrative biological drugs on which Uganda is spending a lot of money. For instance,
the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) is rehabilitating its pharmaceutical factory
in Bugolobi, in Kampala, in partnership with Egyptians.
NEC will be capitalised to produce some of the drugs we are importing, which will
make a big saving on foreign exchange.
c. To tap into the export market, NRM will facilitate local industries in attaining good
manufacturing practice (GMP) compliance, which is globally recognised.
d. Support research by scientists to identify new drugs and capitalisation through global
patenting.
e. Enhance research and development in indigenous medicine at key research institutions

to enable traditionalists upgrade their products, as well as develop appropriate and
resilient drugs.
f. Do feasibility studies on the potential industries for medical and pharmaceutical

products that are not manufactured in Uganda. This will entail the establishment of
joint ventures with multinational pharmaceutical companies.
66 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

2.2.4. STRENGTHENING THE PRIVATE SECTOR

Industrialisation requires a combination of good policy/plan and strong private sector.
Uganda, like many other countries that started industrialising late, faces the problem
of a weak private sector characterised by short-termism, business hopping, real estate
speculation, rent-seeking, foreign product worship as well as the unwillingness to explore
new products, technology and markets. There is a general lack of schumpeterian animal
spirit (innovativeness courage, vigour and enthusiasm to pursue new areas of investment).
Wealthy Ugandans have continued to invest in urban properties instead of building
factories even when the return on investment in the non-tradable is low and high risk.
WAY FORWARD
a. Apart from the incentives, NRM will continue offering support to the private sector.
A comprehensive programme of aspiration, philosophy, mass campaign, factory
projects, training, awards and institution-building to promote popular mindset change
will be launched.
b. In consultation with the private sector, the National Planning Authority (NPA) will
conduct and publicise feasibility studies on strategic investment opportunities, showing
the level of profitability, sustainability and other parameters so as to guide investors.
c. To entice the private sector to embrace investment in industrial production, NRM is

going to establish a programme that will target private sector development, technical
and vocational education and training (TVET) reform in addition to quality assurance
infrastructure reform.
d. We are also going to use our tariff/tax regime determined together with our friends
under the EAC to protect sensitive infant industries. The common external tariff (CET)
on imports from countries that are not in EAC contains three bands: 0 (zero) on raw
materials and capital goods, 10% on semi-processed and intermediate products and
25% on finished imports. The Government has already protected 59 sensitive products
with CET above 25%, reaching 100% for some products. Some industries such as textiles
will need long-term protection to attract investment and create employment for the
youth.
e. We are going to support more regional business symposiums to attract private

investment to regional cities across the country.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 67

2.2.5 INCREASE MARKET ACCESS FOR EXPORTS

With NRM’s ambitious and pragmatic plans to industrialise Uganda, market has emerged
as one of the leading bottlenecks facing producers. Market access challenges have
historically ranged from the global unfair “rules of the game” — restrictions, standards
and subsidies used by wealthy nations — down to regional and local-level factors. In the
past two decades, Africa has been shifting away from its traditional trading partners,
European Union (with Africa’s exports going to EU reducing from an average of 40% in
2000 to 25% in 2017) and the US (from nearly 25% in 2000 to 8% in 2017), and increasing its
exports to China (from 5% in 2000 to over 20% in 2017) and India (from 3% to 10%).
Like aggregate exports, Africa’s manufacturing exports too have shifted away from the
EU, declining from 50% in 1995 to 25% in 2015. The share of manufacturing exports going
to the US has remained stable at around 10% in the past 25 years. Yet in 2001, the US
government offered Africa privileged access to the US market under the Africa Growth
and Opportunity Act (AGOA) as a mechanism to stimulate export growth in Africa. AGOA
provides for duty-free treatment for about 6,500 goods from eligible sub-saharan African
countries exported to the US.
Uganda was one of the first countries to express interest in benefiting from the provisions
of AGOA when it was launched. Some of Uganda’s eligible products include agricultural
and forest products, textiles and apparel, footwear, minerals and metals.
However, Uganda’s exports to the US under AGOA have been dropping steadily — from
$3.3m in 2010 to $1.15m in 2014 and further $288,000 (0.6% of total exports [$50.8m] in
2016.
Why are we not taking advantage of AGOA?
Some people have cited unclear guidelines by US customs. They say the paperwork is
a nightmare, forcing most traders to pay the duties rather than do the paperwork. And
the people in government have not been giving them enough ground support. This must
change. Our apparel manufacturers and craft makers, in particular, stand to benefit a
lot from AGOA because the demand for their products is high.
68 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Apart from AGOA and the EU’s Everything But Arms (EBA) — where EAC partner states
receive full duty-free and quota-free access to the EU for all exports with the exception
of arms — we have also negotiated a number of regional trade agreements, including
the EAC Common Market Protocol, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa
(COMESA) Free Trade Agreement and the COMESA-EAC-SADC Tripartite Free Trade
Area. The World Trade Organisation (WTO) also granted a waiver to allow preferential
treatment for services and service suppliers from least developed countries (LDCs). This is
why, today, Uganda has emerged as the champion of the rising share of manufacturing
exports going to other SSA countries from East Africa. With the implementation of the
Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), we are going to consolidate this position
and find more markets for our products.
WAY FORWARD
a. In line with our third principle of Pan-Africanism, NRM is going to continue working
closely with our African brothers and sisters to ensure the success of the free continental
market to support the prosperity of our people. With a well-functioning African free
market, the issue of market will be addressed. This is well elaborated in Achieving
Economic and Political Integration - Pages 274-282.
b. Like in (a) above, NRM will work with the EAC sister countries to take full advantage of
the customs union and remove all non-trade barriers to enhance trade in the region.
c. The strategy used before was for the Government to negotiate trade agreements
and stop there, hoping that our exporters would take advantage of this. Although
to some extent this worked, the private sector has not taken full advantage of the
available and emerging markets. Over the next five years, NRM is going to work directly
with private sector organisations such as Uganda Manufactures Association (UMA),
chamber organisations — like mines and petroleum, oil and gas, trade, investment —
and the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) to help manufacturers and other
producers identify markets and look for buyers of Ugandan products, both in the
regional and international markets.
d. Following the removal or substantial reduction in tariffs and quotas, countries resorted
to using Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS)
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 69

and other quality and product safety issues to protect their markets. NRM is going to
continue investing in compliance with TBT, SPS and packaging/branding and delivery
infrastructure to ensure that our products gain more access to bigger and lucrative
markets in the US, EU and the UK as well as Africa and the emerging ones in the Middle
East, India and China.
e. We are also going to increase support (both financial and capacity enhancement)
to our trade support agencies such as the Uganda Export Promotions Board, Uganda
National Bureau of Standards and Uganda Coffee Development Authority to provide
precise market information and knowledge to buyers in the target market. Our
products have to be competitive in quality, availability, safety and price.
f. Investing in railway, water and air cargo transport infrastructure in order to reduce
cost and ease movement to the market.
g. Our missions abroad will scale up commercial diplomacy to market Uganda’s

products, tourism and our investment potential. They will be looking at what the
countries where they are based import from other markets and advise if Uganda can
competitively export those products by liaising with the private sector in Uganda. The
missions will also identify investors to come and invest in areas where we have already
carried out feasibility studies showing the profitability of the ventures to be invested in.
2.2.6. TURNING YOUTH INTO MANUFACTURERS

USING ZONAL INDUSTRIAL HUBS
Uganda has the world’s second youngest population, behind Niger in West Africa. Over
three quarters of Ugandans are below 30 years of age while 53% are below 15. Our
population is also growing rapidly — it is projected the youth cohort could have increased
by five percentage points by the end of 2020.
A larger proportion of these youth is either unemployed or underemployed, and they are
understandably frustrated. Most of them lack employable skills. Uganda has three main
categories of youth:
70 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

l Graduates and those holding other certificates from institutions of higher learning —
these are highly unemployed.
l The uneducated — these are highly underemployed.
l Those with Business, Technical, Vocational Education and Training (BTVET) qualifications
— these are largely employed.
In the past, NRM invested in the Youth Livelihood Programme to help the young people
start their own businesses. About Ush160.2 billion was lent to various youth groups across
the country. We are now turning to training them to gain skills that they can use to work
in factories or service sectors or start their own cottage businesses.
In the past term, President Museveni piloted a skilling programme for the youth and
women throughout the five divisions of Kampala. He established centres to train the youth
and women that many people had dismissed as abataasoma/bamisomo gyalema (the
uneducated).
The centres train these youth in carpentry, fabrication and welding, shoemaking,
embroidery, tailoring, weaving, hairdressing, knitting, bakery, crafts and stone-cutting (for
the areas with stones). In addition, we are going to introduce financial literacy for them
to manage their enterprises better. The programme has so far skilled and funded 14,448
youth (12,564 girls and 1,884 boys) and 36,300 women. The training is free of charge and
requires no prior education qualifications and local languages are used for instruction.
Having registered commendable success in Kampala, NRM is going to roll out the skilling
project throughout the country through the establishment of the zonal industrial hubs.
Each centre will have an intake capacity of between 200 and 300 with dormitories to
accommodate those coming from afar. Those living nearby will be day scholars.
This youth and women skilling programme will be implemented in conjunction with the
industrial parks listed on Page 54. Those who want to put their skills to use, by establishing
cottage industries, will be facilitated (with finances, technology, standards and quality
assurance) to set up a cottage linked to the cluster implemented by the industrial park.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 71

Those who prefer to work in the established industries or elsewhere on farms, workshops,
garages or carpentries will find it easier to get jobs.
Construction of the hub is ongoing in different parts of the country, guided by the 20
zones in Table 2. Through these hubs, we will be able to get back our jobs that since
colonial times have been lost to countries where we buy imports. Before colonialism,
we had: abakomagyi (cloth makers), abahazi (leather tanners), abaremi (shoemakers),
ababaizi (wood workers), abanogoozi, ababumbi (ceramics — clay, people making
clay products of all types), abaheesi (blacksmiths), abatanagyi (bow and arrow makers),
abariimbi (lake experts in making rafts — ebiba), abaziingyi (makers of copper and iron
bracelets). These jobs were lost upon the arrival of colonialists with their distortions and
selfish agenda.
TABLE 2: ZONES FOR YOUTH SKILLING

REGION COMPOSITION OF REGION
Mengo (Gomba, Kayunga, Mpigi, Mukono, Luwero, Wakiso, Butambala, Buikwe,
1 Nakaseke, Nakasongola, Buvuma)
Greater Masaka (Sembabule, Masaka, Lwengo, Kalangala, Lyantonde, Kalungu, Rakai,
2 Kyotera, Bukomansimbi)
3 Mubende (Mubende, Kassanda, Mityana, Kyankwanzi, Kiboga)
Busoga (Kaliro, Iganga, Namutumba, Mayuge, Kamuli, Bugiri, Jinja, Bugweri,
4 Namayingo, Buyende and Luuka)
5 Bukedi (Butebo, Pallisa, Busia, Butaleja, Budaka, Tororo, Kibuku)
6 Bugisu (Mbale, Manafwa, Namisindwa, Bulambuli, Sironko, Bududa)
7 Sebei (Kapchorwa, Kween, Bukwo)
Teso (Soroti, Bukedea, Amuria, Kumi, Ngora, Serere, Kaberamaido, Katakwi,
8 Kapelebyong, Kalaki)
Karamoja (Moroto, Kotido, Amudat, Abim, Napak, Kaabong, Karenga, Nabilatuk,
9 Nakapiripirit)
10 Lango (Lira, Oyam, Otuke, Apac, Kwania, Amolatar, Dokolo, Alebtong, Kole)
11 Acholi (Amuru, Kitgum, Gulu, Omoro, Pader, Nwoya, Agago, Lamwo)
12 Madi (Adjumani, Obongi, Moyo)
West Nile (Yumbe, Arua, Madi-Okollo, Koboko, Maracha, Zombo, Nebbi, Pakwach and
13 Terego)
14 Bunyoro (Masindi, Hoima, Kikuube, Buliisa, Kibaale, Kagadi, Kakumiro, Kiryandongo)
Ankole (Ibanda, Rubirizi, Sheema, Ntungamo, Rwampara, Buhweju, Kiruhura, Mitooma,
15 Kazo, Bushenyi, Isingiro, Mbarara)
16 Kigezi (Kabale, Rukungiri, Rukiga, Kisoro, Rubanda, Kanungu)
17 Tooro (Kabarole, Kitagwenda, Kyenjojo, Kamwenge, Bunyagabo, Kyegegwa)
18 Kasese
19 Bundibugyo-Ntoroko
20 Kampala
72 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

The skilling centres will be equipped with common-user machines (like carpentry
machines, metal-fabricating machines, a bakery unit, weaving and knitting equipment,
tailoring and shoemaking centre), which will be accessed by the skilled youth in adding
value to what they do. Even those who have not trained at the centre — but are already
in business and need to use the machines — will be able to use them. For instance, some
youth doing stone cutting, may need access to the machines to shape their stones.
2.2.7. LEATHER TANNING FACTORY

We are building a leather tanning factory at Kawumu, Luwero district, to process leather
from animal hides and skins. Progress of the factory construction is nearing completion
with 75% of the work done.
The leather from this tannery will be used by the youth in industrial hubs to make shoes,
belts, bags, hats, chairs and car seats. Currently, the hides are being processed up to
the wet blue stage and exported. This has been bringing in very little revenue and the
country is making losses since we import leather products at very high prices.
The youth who are already making different leather products mentioned above are using
imported leather. They also lack machines to perfect their work. With the tannery and the
skilling/industrial centres, this is going to stop.
Furthermore, with our tannery and shoemaking factories, Ugandans will start wearing
leather shoes made from Uganda’s animal hides and we will be able to export them as
well.
Under the skilling programme, the youth will embark on meaningful cottage industries
for local, regional and the African markets. This programme will be financed through the
Emyooga fund (See Page 108). We will support the cottage industry to compete against
imports dumped in Uganda.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 73

2.2.8. REVENUE MOBILISATION MEASURES

When NRM took power, it launched a number of reforms to broaden the tax base and
increase domestic revenue mobilisation.
As part of the reforms, the URA was established in 1991 and this saw a significant
improvement in the collection of domestic revenue from Ush5 billion in FY1985/86 to
Ush17,589 billion in FY2019/20. This raised the tax-GDP ratio from a dismal 5.3% in FY1985/86
to 14.4% in FY2019/20. However, despite the stupendous improvement, Uganda still lags
behind in tax collection, even among her regional peers in EAC, COMESA and sub-
saharan Africa. For example, the average tax-to-GDP ratio for sub-saharan Africa is 20%;
Kenya’s stands at around 18% while Uganda is yet to achieve 15%.
Studies have found that despite URA’s innovations, a small percentage of Ugandans
pay tax. A number of commodities in Uganda are undertaxed due to slackness among
our tax officials and policymakers. For example, our tax effort has in the past two years
improved by three percentage points.
This increase has been on account of the concerted effort of the NRM chairman to
whip the policymakers and URA into waking up and enforcing a tax legal regime, which
is comparable to global benchmarks. Recently, we put in place a five-year domestic
revenue mobilisation strategy whose main objective is to raise the tax-to-GDP ratio to
16% by 2023.
Some studies indicate that Uganda could raise tax revenue up to 23% of GDP annually
if we reduced the leakages and improved the efficiency of the revenue administration
systems.
Empirical research studies indicate that there is room for Uganda to expand its tax base
and raise more domestic revenue without hurting the economy. For example, one study
has found the VAT compliance gap (the difference between potential VAT revenues
under the current legal framework and the actual VAT revenues) at 60%, which translates
into 6% of Uganda’s GDP or nearly Ush2.5 trillion. This money would be enough to build a
Ush18.5 billion factory in every single district of Uganda.
74 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

This manifesto has been developed without oil revenue inflows in consideration. However,
when the first oil revenue expected in 2023 comes in, we shall be able to do more.
WAY FORWARD
a. URA has already started to implement the Digital Tax Stamps (DTS) to effectively
collect applicable tax revenues from sectors that have been difficult to monitor —
such as beverages like beer, spirits, wine, soda, mineral water and tobacco products,
both locally manufactured and imported. The results of DTS are promising with an
immediate boost of revenue. For example, in each of the first two months of FY2020/21,
URA registered a revenue collection surplus despite the negative impact of COVID-19
on the economy.
In July 2020, URA registered a surplus of Ush179 billion in excess of its target, while in
August the surplus increased to Ush354 billion. We are going to initiate and enforce
more reforms to seal the revenue leakages, increase compliance and thus boost
collection.
b. We have also learnt from our researchers that preferential excise rates charged on
beverages and exemptions on automobiles and aviation taxes have for years been
the main sources of tax leakages. We are going to study this and streamline policies
in order to curb tax evasion.
c. URA will co-operate with other tax authorities (where importers buy the goods) to
effectively fight against tax fraud such as underdeclaration, false declaration, tax
avoidance and outright evasion. This will be achieved through information sharing
between URA and tax authorities in other countries.
d. We shall continue training and skilling tax officers to match the technical requirements
of the industries.
e. Our continued support to the businesspeople and investors to create more wealth
and get more people out of the 68.9% in agriculture subsistence sector will definitely
help improve revenue collection.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 75

2.2.9. EXPENDITURE CONTROL MEASURES

On the side of expenditure, OWC recently helped us examine the way our civil servants were
budgeting and spending resources. There was a divergence between NRM’s strategic intention
and the way they allocated resources in the national budget. Most of the party’s good plans (like
industrial parks, microfinance for the youth, scientists and innovators) are often underfunded while
a huge sum of money is being spent on consumptive and unproductive expenses such as travel
abroad, allowances, consultancies, workshops, welfare, as well as entertainment and hire of
venues. For example, in the FY2019/20 budget, a hefty Ush3.9 trillion had been allocated towards
these items. Most of this money was being spent on sustaining agencies and not production.
Upon finding out the huge allocation on non-productive items, Government earmarked it for
reallocation in the recent budget review. We have also had a problem of low utilisation of funds,
particularly loans in priority sectors such as roads, water and agriculture, which undermines our
objective of job and wealth creation. The issues cited are slow procurement, acquisition of right
of way and poor project management. We have also learnt that the budget is informing the plan
instead of the other way round.
WAY FORWARD
a) Over the next five years, ‘agencification’ and ‘allowancification’ of our national budget is
going to stop. We are in the process of rationalising some of the money-consuming agencies
to remove duplication and unnecessary expenditure.
b) NRM is going to restructure the national budget and ensure that all consumptive items in the
development budget are shifted to the non-wage budget for better monitoring and control
against wastage. We have also started to implement a programme-based budget in line with
the NDP III, whose alignment with the national budget allocations and other strategic priorities
is no longer negotiable.
c) We are going to renegotiate with our development partners to ensure that funds for ongoing
projects that were allocated on consumptive expenditure are re-channelled to the NDP III
priorities within the respective sectors.
d) We shall not tolerate accounting officers who fail to deliver projects on time. NRM will also
continue to address issues that have been impeding project implementation, particularly
procurement-related constraints and land acquisition to give right of way for the construction
of roads and power lines.
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3. RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSFORMATION
Over 72% of Ugandans live and work in rural areas, these are largely smallholder farmers who
engage in peasant farming for home consumption (okukolera ekidda kyonka).
The 2014 National Population and Housing Census found that 68.9% of Ugandans (that is, seven
in every 10 Ugandans) engaged in subsistence farming with hardly any surplus for the market.
According to the census, out of the 6.9 million homesteads in Uganda doing farming, 4.8 million
produced entirely for their own consumption. For such families, any marketable surplus comes as
a surprise.
Therefore, since on average every family in Uganda has five members, it follows that over 24
million people are living outside the monetised economy. For example, in Bumwena parish,
Malongo sub-county in Mayuge district, out of a total of 6,894 homesteads, 6,454 (94%) were
found by census enumerators as working for ekidda kyonka. Directly translated from Lugwere,
ekidda kyonka means working for the stomach (in other words subsistence).
Similarly, in Labala parish, Pabo sub-county in Amuru district, 3,454 of the 3,675 homesteads in the
parish were subsistence farmers. Only eight homesteads practised commercial farming.
The situation is worse in Karambi parish, Nyarubuye sub-county in Kisoro district. Out of 2,635
homesteads in the parish, 2,513 (95%) were in subsistence farming and the remaining 122
homesteads were engaging in other activities other than agriculture. None of the families were
practising commercial agriculture.
The majority of Ugandans in all regions (central, eastern, northern and western Uganda) work
so hard, some few even practise commercial farming, but cannot determine the return on their
sweat or even investment (ekibalo, cura is not done).
NRM understands that transformation of the rural economy is going to be driven by demand
creating supply, and not the other way round. Therefore, using the parish model, over the next five
years, NRM is going to scale up its efforts to provide incentives and support to smallholder farmers
to use their land more productively so as to boost household incomes, escape from poverty and
set in motion the industrial revolution.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 77

NRM is also aware that Ugandans have less options beyond farming due to low levels of
development of off-farm activities. Hence most of the people work less hours a day. We
have already diagnosed this and started creating off-farm opportunities as we continue
to support commercialisation of agriculture that is industry and market-led.
In the following sections, we elaborate what we are going to do in order to succeed. The
overall goal is to raise household incomes so as to improve the welfare of all Ugandans
and boost the purchasing power needed for the growth of the domestic market.
3.1.
AGRICULTURE COMMERCIALISATION
AND INDUSTRIALISATION
3.1.1. AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION AND PRODUCTIVITY

In the past term, NRM introduced OWC as a vehicle for reaching out and supporting the
68.9% in the subsistence sector. The overall intention was to improve household incomes
and food security.
OWC has provided logistical support as well as offered advice in enterprise selection and
mindset change. Despite a few operational challenges, it is yielding very positive results
as shown below:
PROGRESS
a. Coffee
For a long time, Uganda’s coffee production had stagnated at 3 million 60kg bags annually.
Through OWC in 2014, we started distributing coffee seedlings to farmers in all the 112 coffee
producing districts. Of these, 88 and nine grow only Robusta and Arabica, respectively. Nine
have both varieties.
We distributed 702 million coffee seedlings to nearly 1.2 million households of which 61% (430
million seedlings) survived with good yields. This led to an increase in the coffee production
area from 648,000 acres in 2015 to over 1,399,200 acres in 2019. Subsequently, the volume
of coffee produced increased from 4.55 million 60kg bags in FY2015/16 to 7.75 million in
FY2019/20 (a 70% increase).
78 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Bufumbo farmer
at Mt. Elgon picks
Arabica coffee
UCDA has also put emphasis on improving the quality of coffee. Good coffee quality
production begins with farmers planting best quality seedlings.
NRM is going to continue supporting UCDA to invest in quality improvement to achieve large
coffee beans of screen 18 grade, which can only be achievable if farmers use the right
planting materials obtained from nurseries licensed by UCDA, and pick only red ripe coffee.
Uganda’s export earnings from coffee increased from US$352 million in 2015 to US$496 million
in 2019/20, notwithstanding the drop in coffee prices on the international market to US$1.62
per kg in 2019/20 from US$2.06 in 2015/16.
Our goal is to increase coffee production to 20 million bags by 2025.
b. Maize
The production of maize has increased by 52% from 2.6 million metric tonnes (MT) in
2016 to 5 million MT in 2019. The volume of maize exports has also increased by 6% from
263,114MT in 2016 to 278,693 MT in 2019. In addition, the value of exports increased by
12% from US$84.99 million in 2016 to US$95.48 million in 2019.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 79

c. Tea
Tea production increased by 19% from 67,000MT in the FY2015/16 to 79,466 MT in FY2018/19.
In addition, the volume of exports increased by 34% from 54,898 MT worth US$74.5 million
in FY2015/16 to 73,580 MT worth US$89 million.
Reports indicate overproduction of tea leaves in some districts against the existing
processing capacities, as is the case of Kyenjojo, Kabarole, Kanungu and Buhweju. NRM
government interventions, together with the farmers’ own initiatives, have stimulated the
establishment of more tea factories from 27 to 33, including two new ones that were set
up in Kabale and Kisoro with the support of the Government.
Additionally, 15 new tea factories are being established and are at different levels of
construction in the following districts: Kyenjojo (2), Buhweju (3), Kanungu (1), Bushenyi (1),
Rukiga (1), Kisoro (1), Ntungamo (1), Kamwenge (1), Mbarara (1), Luwero (1), Zombo (1)
and Sheema (1).
d. Cassava
The Government has provided support to both smallholders and commercial farmers
through the provision of cuttings in more than 60 district local governments that prioritise
cassava. A total of 752,219 bags of cassava cuttings have been distributed.
In an effort to commercialise cassava production in northern Uganda, the Government

distributed an additional 110,000 bags of cuttings to farmers in the Acholi sub-region.
The distribution is being implemented in collaboration with Gulu Catholic Archdiocese to
address rural poverty and stimulate industrialisation in the region. The diocese is setting
up a factory to process cassava into starch and other products.
e. Cocoa
A total of 21,526,743 cocoa seedlings were distributed to both smallholders and

commercial farmers in the district local governments that prioritise cocoa production. As
a result, cocoa export volumes increased by 19% from 29,761 MT in FY2015/16 to 35,318
MT in FY2018/19, while the value of our cocoa exports grew by 3% from US$75 million to
US$78 million.
80 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

President Museveni on a tour of Soroti Fruit Factory in Soroti district on 13th April 2019
f. Fruits (Citrus, Mangoes, Pineapples, Apples)
A total of 41,426,303 citrus seedlings; 28,706,281 mango seedlings; 2,439,155 apple

seedlings and 36,446,670 pineapple suckers were distributed. As a result, the export
volume of fruits and vegetables has increased by 20% from 57,358 MT in 2015 to 68,862
MT in 2019. The export value also increased by 13% from US$32.1 million in 2015 to US$36.1
million in 2019.
g. Livestock
OWC distributed:
i. 17,151 dairy heifers for income and nutrition security to households and special interest
groups (youth and women) in 115 districts.
ii. 3,412 beef cattle, including 2,800 beef young bulls for fattening to National Enterprise
Corporation (NEC), Katonga Farm for the Meat Export Support Services Project
(MESSP) and 612 beef bulls to serve communities in 56 districts for improvement of
beef production.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 81

iii. 34,800 cattle semen (doses) and 30,186 liquid nitrogen (litres) in partnership with
the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRIC & DB) for
upgrading existing breeds to 116 districts, including Kampala Capital City Authority
(KCCA).
iv. 13,751 pigs for income-generation activities in 60 districts, to households and special
interest groups such as the youth and women.
v. 632,497 poultry birds for household income improvement to 2,530 households in 70

districts and special interest groups such as the youth and women; and 1,768,294kg
of poultry feeds (chick and duck marsh). As part of the poultry package, a startup
kit was provided to each poultry beneficiary farmer for three months to support 2,530
households in 70 districts and special interest groups such as youth and women.
vi. 7,405,117 fingerlings for tilapia, catfish and mirror carp as well as 352,773kg of fish feed
for income and nutritional security to households.
vii. 120 artificial insemination kits in 116 districts, including KCCA for breed improvement.
h. Sugarcane production
A total of 13,841 acres of sugarcane have been planted for over 3,000 outgrower
households (the majority of whom are women in co-operatives) in Atiak, Amuru district.
An additional 41,000 acres are being planted in Lamwo district. This will not only support
Atiak Sugar Factory, but also improve household incomes.
Furthermore, in order to improve Uganda’s sugarcane production, NRM government
will give farmers quality fertilisers. It will further support the establishment of the National
Sugar Research Centre to improve sugarcane varieties for high yields.
i. Rice Production
Rice is increasingly becoming important to Ugandan households, both as a cash crop
and staple food, especially in Bukedi, Busoga, Teso, Acholi and other sub-regions.
Despite a potential yield of 8MT/ha, large-scale farmers are getting at most 2.5MT/ha for
upland and 3.6MT/ha for lowland varieties, while medium-scale farmers get an average
yield of 1.6MT/ha for upland and 2.4MT/ha for lowland rice. Small-scale farmers get only
82 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

1.2 MT/ha for upland and 1.5MT/ha for the lowland variety.
Uganda has a deficit of 200,000MT of rice that we are importing.
NRM is going to set up nucleus farms and support outgrowers to produce and meet the
country’s demand for rice. However, we shall not allow farmers to use wetlands to grow
rice. They should either use irrigation or grow upland rice.
j. Cotton
Only five crops (coffee, maize, beans, tea and tobacco) beat cotton in export earnings.
The crop supports close to 3 million people along the entire value chain. Yet most of
the cotton (about 90%) is exported as lint in bale form with limited processing into yarn,
fabrics and garments. Uganda has a comparative advantage in cotton production and
our cotton lint is of excellent quality. However, research shows that cotton production
is more profitable when grown on a large scale — not less than 5ha (12 acres) of land,
according to FAO. Intensively-mechanised farming systems with larger farm sizes, as
opposed to manual smallholder farms, are more profitable. This is true for many other
major field crops such as maize, soybean and tobacco.
NRM is going to build a competitive and sustainable cotton, textiles and apparel industry
for value-addition, job-creation and export growth. We are going to support large-scale
cotton production in areas with relatively larger pieces of arable land.
k. Horticulture
Horticultural crops constitute a significant portion of the total agricultural produce in
Uganda. Investment costs in horticulture tend to be low, returns per unit area are usually
very high and the time for return on investment is long. The horticulture sub-sector is,
therefore, strategically important for the 68.9% of our population that is not in the money
economy.
Uganda’s horticulture sub-sector is generally characterised by low yields and quality, high
post-harvest losses and unorganised value chain actors. However, domestic, regional
and international markets for horticultural produce have huge supply deficits. Uganda
particularly has significant competitive advantage neighbours in the region in terms of
climate, abundant water resources, fertile soils and central location. We need to transform
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 83

Uganda’s horticulture sub-sector into a commercial, highly competitive, modern,

inclusive, resilient and sustainable sub-sector over the next five years. Four horticultural
crop categories: fruits (mango, citrus, passion fruit and avocado), vegetables (tomato
and onion), spices (vanilla and capsicums) and ornamental plants (roses, a range of
cuttings and summer flowers) will be prioritised.
We will revamp the horticulture sub-sector through the deployment of a commodity

value chain approach and simultaneously target production, post-harvest handling,
marketing and utilisation/consumption nodes. Efficient co-ordination and a favourable
environment will be given particular attention since the development of the sub-sector
gravitates around it. Specific challenges that will be addressed over the next five years
include:
i) High incidence of pests and diseases.
ii) Poor crop management practices.
iii) Limited access to high quality inputs.
iv) Limited access to land for production.
v) Inadequate processing and handling capacity.
vi) Limited access to domestic, regional and international markets.
vii) Price volatility.
viii) Failure to adhere to horticultural standards.
ix) Limited product diversification.
x) Lack of capital.
xi) Poor co-ordination and policy implementation.
A centralised horticulture programme for co-ordination will be established at the

Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) and facilitated to exploit
the potential of the sub-sector. Other relevant ministries: National Agricultural Research
Organisation (NARO), NAADS/OWC, local governments, civil society, development
partners, academia and the private sector will be encouraged to work closely with the
horticulture programme at MAAIF. The Uganda Horticulture Society will also be formed
to regulate professional conduct within the sub-sector. A total of Ush979.7 billion will be
84 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

invested in the sub-sector over a period of five years. This investment will help us achieve
the following:
i) Increased horticultural production and productivity.
ii) Improved post-harvest handling, processing and value-addition.
iii) Increased market access and competitiveness of horticultural products in domestic

and international markets.
iv) Increased resource mobilisation and access to finance for horticulture.
v) Strengthened institutional capacities for improved service delivery.
In order to ensure yearlong supply of horticultural produce, farmers in selected irrigation

schemes will be encouraged to engage in market-led horticulture.
3.1.2. POST-HARVEST HANDLING AND STORAGE

Efforts to boost production have caused a temporary ‘good problem’. The country is
now overflowing with agricultural produce that needs proper post-harvest management,
value-addition and markets.
Through OWC, Uganda has now moved from being a country of deficit into one of surplus
agricultural commodities. This has led to low prices paid to our farmers and outright
waste due to inadequate technologies for proper post-harvest management and value-
addition.
This, however, does not mean that we have been asleep. In the following sections, we
provide an account of the progress made in the areas of post-harvest management and
value-addition, as well as a summary of what we are going to focus on over the next five
years.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 85

PROGRESS
a. Community Grain Stores

NRM constructed farmer-based community grain stores across the country to support
farmers’ access to markets through collective marketing. We entered into a partnership
with the World Food Programme (WFP) in 2016 to jointly address identified gaps in
food storage capacity, post-harvest losses eradication, value-addition and collective
marketing systems. The partnership also provides for improving access to agro-inputs in
selected parts of the country.
Furthermore, under the partnership 12 community grain stores in 11 districts — Napak,
Adjumani, Kiryandongo, Masindi, Hoima, Kyenjonjo, Mubende, Kakumiro, Kiboga,
Nakaseke and Kyegegwa — have been constructed.
b. Milk Coolers and Matching Generators

NRM government has distributed 121 sets of milk coolers and matching generators to
dairy farmers’ organisations in various districts across all the milk sheds in the country. The
districts include Kiboga, Kyankwanzi, Pallisa, Apac, Gulu, Bugiri, Kibuku, Kamuli, Luwero,
Nakaseke, Sembabule, Lyantonde, Isingiro and Kiruhura.
c. Milling Equipment
We distributed 58 maize and five rice-milling machines to farmers’ groups in some districts.
d. Fish Hatcheries
The Government has established three fish hatcheries — Nalugugu Fish Hatchery, one
in Sironko district and Anyara Fish Hatchery. Our scientists are also continuously doing
research to boost fish farming at research centres such as Mukono ZARDI.
WAY FORWARD
NRM is committed to addressing food and nutrition insecurity as well as increasing
national income through strategies to reduce post-harvest losses.
High food losses result from poor post-harvest handling practices like poor drying and high
moisture content at storage time. Losses also result from inadequate and inappropriate
storage facilities, limited value-addition, filth and contamination, poor marketing systems,
86 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

damage by insects, rodents and other pests as well as infestation by micro-organisms,

especially fungi that produce mycotoxins such as aflatoxins. This exacerbates hunger
situations, poverty and food insecurity.
In order to sell our goods on the domestic, regional and international markets, the quality
of our products must meet the required standard. The grade of our grain and coffee, for
instance, is undermined by poor post-harvest handling methods such as drying the grain,
cob and coffee on bare ground.
Annually, post-harvest losses stand at 2.8m MT of maize, 214,000MT of millet, and 230,000MT
of rice. For horticulture produce, the losses are even higher.
During the next five years, we are going to do the following:

a. Through the parish-based production co-operatives, we will educate farmers on the
right post-harvest handling practices.
b. Acquire appropriate technology for post-harvest handling of fish, beef, dairy and
horticulture products.
c. Finalise and implement the fisheries and aquaculture law including, regulation,
guidelines and statutory instruments to streamline the fish maw value chain. We will
also promote the sustainability of Nile Perch (stocking, research to domesticate it,
promote cage farming for fish stocking). Further, we will undertake socio-economic
impact, sustainability and feasibility studies to guide investments in fish maw value
chain.
d. Ensure regulatory authorities perform their role. UNBS, UCDA, Dairy Development
Association (DDA) and Cotton Development Organisation (CDO), should enforce
adherence to quality standards by the private sector players. For instance, UCDA
should ensure buyers/traders buy good grades of coffee to enforce discipline. As
farmers fail to sell low grade coffee due to poor post-harvest handling, they will self-
regulate and improve post-harvest handling. This should also be applied to all grain
handlers.
e. Acquire appropriate technology and physical infrastructure for post-harvest handling
of cereals and grains.
f. Construct community grain stores in Busoga and Bukedi sub-regions.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 87

3.1.3. AGRO-PROCESSING
PROGRESS
a. Establishment of Agro-industrial and Business Parks

During the last term, NRM government started an initiative called Agro-Industrialisation
for Local Economic Development (AGRI-LED) to promote agro-industrialisation in regions
that were not attractive to the private sector without mitigation of risks by the State.
The AGRI-LED strategic interventions are being piloted in the Rwenzori sub-region and
some of the ongoing undertakings include the establishment of Kasese and Kabarole
industrial and business parks.
In the Kasese Industrial Park, progress has been registered in the opening of roads,
construction of a piped water network and 33KV high-voltage power line.
In Kabarole Industrial & Business Park, the development of the master plan for the
establishment of the park is ongoing. Infrastructure works will commence once the plan
is in place.
b. Fruit-processing facilities
The intervention of distributing fruit seedlings in different parts of the country has stimulated
the establishment of agro-based factories in different production areas. These factories
will guarantee market for our fruit farmers’ produce and stimulate production.
Furthermore, they will create jobs for the youth. For instance, Soroti Fruit Factory was
commissioned in 2019 and is producing Teju, a high quality brand of juice. It buys fruits
worth Ush15 billion from Teso farmers. The Government has also set up the following
factories, some of which have been completed and are awaiting commissioning while
others are under construction:
i. Yumbe Mango Juice Manufacturing Plant (40 MT per day).
ii. Kayunga Pineapple Juice Manufacturers (8 to 11 MT/day).
iii. Kapeeka Multi-Fruit Manufacturing Plant (3MT/hour).
iv. Floky Wineries in Bunyangabo for grapes (2,000 litres/day).
v. Nyakihanga Fruit Processing factory in Itojo has been completed.
88 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

WAY FORWARD
a. Through our research institutions (such as UIRI, NARO and universities), we will scale
up applied research for the development of value-added products from local raw
materials.
b. Under the Agri-LED programme being piloted in the Rwenzori sub-region, we are going
to set up regional agro-industrial parks and the science-led Regional Farm Service
Centres (RFSCs) in 22 agro-ecological zones across the country. These are intended
to complement the efforts of regional agro-industrial parks that will constitute agro-
processing and manufacturing plants by supplying farmers with quality inputs and
technologies to produce raw materials.
A RFSC is a one-stop shop and centre of excellence that provides all the essential
science-led farm inputs including: certified seed, agrochemicals, fertilisers, farm
machinery, extension services, agriculture credit services, agriculture insurance
services, disease control services, expertise and guidance regarding inputs provided
to enhance farmers’ knowledge and skills in farm management. It will be linked to the
regional agro-industrial hubs that will be developed under the same programme.
c. On demand by farmer groups, factories — such as fruit factories in Arua and Mpigi,
potato processing in Kabale, dairy processing factory in Fort Portal — were set up but
are either not operating at all or are operating below capacity. Through UDC we will
invest in operationalisation of these factories.
d. Establish new and expand existing agro-industries for processing of selected
agricultural commodities for import substitution and export promotion as follows:
a. Value-Addition to Cassava
Through UDC we are going to support the following cassava-based manufacturing
factories:
l Acholi Bur Catholic Archdiocese, in Pader district to add value to cassava in northern
Uganda.
l Bukona Agro-Processors in Nwoya district to convert cassava into ethanol.
l Bagadia Cassava Factory in Lira to add value to the crop.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 89

b. Value-Addition to Fruits
Through UDC we are going to support fruit-processing factories in Nwoya district, Greater
Masaka, Luwero and Rwenzori sub-regions. Planning is underway and civil works will start
soon.
We will also invest in additional equipment for these fruit-processing facilities: Kapeeka
fruit processing facility (2 MT/hr) and Kayunga pineapple processing facility (600kg/hr).
c. Value-Addition to Cocoa
NRM is going to support the establishment of the first ever state-of-the-art chocolate
factory in Bundibugyo to add value to cocoa in the Rwenzori sub-region. The factory will
also produce other products such as cocoa butter and powder.
d. Value-Addition to Sugarcane
Through UDC, we have supported the construction of Atiak Sugar Factory in Amuru
district, which has already started producing sugar. It crushes 2,000 tonnes of sugarcane
per day with an output of 180 tonnes of sugar a day.
UDC is also going to work with Busoga Sugarcane Growers Association to set up a sugar
factory in the Busoga sub-region using the Atiak model. In addition, we are going to set
up sugarcane value-addition incubation centres in each district of Busoga sub-region.
Further, NRM government will support strategic private industries to develop back-end
sugar refineries that will start to address the local demand for refined sugar.
In order to complete the value chain for sugarcane (and cassava), the consumption of
bioethanol and the reduction in petroleum imports, NRM will implement the introduction
of a 10% bioethanol blending (E10) policy within the first year of the next term in an effort
to support domestic production and consumption of bioethanol.
e. Coffee Processing
NRM government is supporting coffee processing in Bugisu and Buganda, namely Budadiri
Arabic Coffee Ltd, Kika Coffee Factory and Coffee Factory in Kazo. In particular, we are
going to support the setting up of a soluble coffee plant.
90 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

President Museveni inspecting some of the grain milling equipment made by Katwe-based
Musa Body Machinery in Kampala on 10th October 2020
f. Grain Milling
NRM is going to establish a large-scale grain milling facility in Kyenjojo. Progressively, we
will also establish similar facilities in Bugiri, Sironko, Kapchorwa and Pallisa.
g. Strengthening Dairy Value Chains

We are going to continue supporting dairy farmers with inputs. This support will include:
(i) Provision of in-calf heifers to smallholder farmers.
(ii) Building local capacity in conserved feed production.
(iii) Developing capacity for pasture and rangeland improvement in the national
milk sheds.
(iv) Supporting access to artificial insemination services.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 91

(v) Providing drugs.

(vi) Providing milk collection and bulk cooling facilities to farmers’ groups to enhance
milk storage and subsequent value-addition and marketing.
l In order to address the issue of small profit margins in the livestock due to high cost of
feeds, we are going to provide free pasture seed to farmers. Additionally, livestock
farmers will be given feeds processing and conservation equipment as well as other
technologies.
l We will continue to extend support to science-led development of the dairy value

chain through farmer/producer-centred processing intervention.
l NRM is going to establish four mini-dairy processing facilities (5,000-10,000 litres/

hr) across the four regions of Uganda. These facilities will be able to process dairy
products such as pasteurised milk, yoghurt, ice cream and other related products.
3.1.4. SECOND PHASE OF OWC

NRM is committed to increasing the commercialisation and competitiveness of agriculture
to increase the export value of our strategic commodities, farmer productivity, productive
jobs in agro-industry and ensure that all Ugandans are food secure.
We are going to support the agricultural sector by investing proportionately in the sector
from research to markets. As indicated earlier, we have an elaborate plan to support
post-harvest handling and value-addition.
During the 2021-2026 term, OWC is going to transition into the second phase where
support to the 68.9% homesteads in the subsistence economy is going to be extended
using the parish model (See Page 102 — How the model will work).
The OWC, a programme through which different government MDAs are mobilised, is
going to use a value chain and multi-sectoral approach to ensure each of the 68.9% of
homesteads are reached and mobilised through:
l Correct enterprise selection and mindset change.
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l Timely and quality logistical support.

l Proper market infrastructure and information.
In the second phase, OWC will spearhead the co-ordination of government MDAs to
build regional agricultural processing and marketing hubs for the 14 production lines in
the real economy as President Museveni guided the country to prioritise.
(See Box 2 on Page 47).
The 14 production lines are: maize, cassava, banana, beans, Irish potatoes, sweet
potatoes, millet, sugarcane, cattle (beef and dairy), cattle, coffee, tea, cocoa and fish.
As indicated above, we are going to start this financial year (2020/21) to process: cassava
in the north; meat in Nakasongola and Nshara; grain in Busoga; dairy in Mbarara;
potatoes in Kigezi; coffee in Bugisu and Buganda; and fruits in northern, central and
eastern Uganda.
The organised farmers are going to be supported more systematically using the nine
agro-ecological zones to supply quality inputs to the factories.
During FY2020/21, OWC through various agencies including NAADS, UCDA, NAGRIC,
CDO, DDA, NARO, UDC and Microfinance Support Centre (MSC), is going to provide the
following logistical support to farmers still in subsistence:
l Seed and vegetative materials for food security (maize- 2,246 MT, beans- 583 MT,
sorghum – 300MT, cassava cuttings — 250,000 bags, sweet potato vines — 25,500
bags, Irish potato seeds - 4,808 bags).
l Strategic planting materials to scale up production for processing in selected clusters

(Tea – 22,158,614 seedlings, citrus fruits – 1,540,560 seedlings, mangoes – 2,217,481
seedlings, pineapples – 4,190,000 suckers, cashew nuts – 333,333 seedlings and apples
– 111,111 seedlings).
l Livestock/stocking materials (1,782 heifers, 8,186 pigs, poultry birds - 29,950 broilers,
6,000 layers plus 59,950 kroilers and fish – 3,960,400 fingerlings).
l Provision of hand hoes (2.5 million hand hoes). So far, we have given out 1.2 million
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 93

hoes through NAADS, and we are going to increase the number to 2.5 million.
l Improve productivity of coffee to increase production from the current 7.7 million
60kg bags to 20 million. Apart from coffee seedlings, UCDA and OWC will invest more
in good agricultural practices, including use of fertilisers and irrigation to increase
yields from the current 0.79kg to 1.5kg per tree. We will also invest in technologies such
as wet processing to increase incomes per acre.
l Accelerate disease control measures in livestock sector to meet international

standards.
l Increased access to agricultural finance and insurance services.
l Build a quality assurance system from the farm through the entire value chain.
To mitigate against operational challenges faced by OWC during its first phase, we are
going to use the parish model and scale up the e-voucher system to distribute inputs. This
will be implemented in a phased approach, starting with farmer registration, selection,
enrolment and training of the various e-voucher beneficiaries (farming households) and
implementers (including input dealers/distributors, and mobile telephone networks).
Furthermore, as indicated above we are going to setup and equip farm service centres
— a one-stop shop for quality agriculture inputs and information — for bulk input
procurement, storage and distribution.
The farm service centre concept has successfully been piloted at Kapeeka in Nakaseke
district. We are now going to invest more in the pilot and establish Regional Farm Service
Centres (RFSC) starting with Rwenzori sub-region and northern Uganda.
All these interventions will increase the total export value of processed agricultural
commodities such as coffee, tea, fish, dairy, meat and maize from US$1 billion to US$4
billion. They will also reduce the total value of imported food — cereals, vegetable fats
plus oils and industrial grade sugar, which together cost the country over US$930 million
a year.
In addition, the interventions will also increase the number of jobs created in agro-
94 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

industry along the various value chains by 500,000 each year over the next five years.
Most importantly, NRM is going to reduce the proportion of households in subsistence
agriculture from 68.9% to 55%, and thus increase household incomes and food security.
NRM is also aware that apart from production inputs, technologies and value-addition
equipment, the rural economy needs other factors of production to be strengthened and
its challenges addressed. Key among the issues we are going to address, in a much more
decisive way, include: landownership and security, land use and land fragmentation,
agricultural mechanisation, water for production and irrigation infrastructure and
addressing regional imbalance in economic transformation. The subsequent sections
provide the details on how these will be addressed.
3.1.5. AGRICULTURAL MECHANISATION

As part of the broader agriculture mechanisation programme, the Government has
distributed 320 tractors and matching implements to farmers’ groups in 123 district local
governments to scale up farm production for the commercialisation of agriculture.
The Government has set up a bush clearing unit under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal
Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) to be accessed by farmers on reasonable terms.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Water and Environment (MOWE) has units for hire by the
private sector to construct private valley dams/tanks. These efforts will be strengthened
to enable those who can afford to hire equipment to easily do so. Incentives to private
sector players investing in agricultural equipment for hire will be considered.
Furthermore, working with the private sector, we will support a tractor assembly plant to
avail affordable and user-friendly tractors for the farmers using the parish model.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 95

3.2. WATER FOR PRODUCTION AND IRRIGATION

PROGRESS
Overall, irrigation use covers 19,138ha against its potential estimated at 3.03 million ha.
The current cumulative storage for water for production is 42 million cubic metres. In line
with the above, the following are the achievements:
a. The Government has distributed 45 solar water-pumping systems in the 29 districts of:
1. Amuria 9. Kamwenge 16. Kitgum 23. Mubende
2. Buikwe 10. Katakwi 17. Koboko 24. Mukono
3. Bukedea 11. Kayunga 18. Kumi 25. Ntungamo
4. Buvuma 12. Kiboga 19. Luwero 26. Rubirizi
5. Hoima 13. Kibuku 20. Masindi 27. Soroti
6. Kabale 14. Kiruhura 21. Mbarara 28. Wakiso
7. Kaberamaido 15. Kiryandongo 22. Mpigi 29. Yumbe
8. Kamuli
b. An additional 617 acres of the country’s irrigation potential was covered by

completing the construction of 61 small-scale irrigation systems in the following
districts:
TABLE 3: SMALL-SCALE IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
1 Abim 14. Isingiro 26. Kyankwanzi 38. Ngora
2. Adjumani 15. Kaabong 27. Kyegegwa 39. Ntungamo
3. Alebtong 16. Kabarole 28. Lira 40. Nwoya
4. Amuria 17. Kagadi 29. Lyantonde 41. Omoro
5. Arua 18. Kalungu 30. Manafwa 42. Oyam
6. Bugiri 19. Kamuli 31. Manafwa 43. Pakwach
7. Bukedea 20. Kamwenge 32. Masaka 44. Pallisa
8. Bushenyi 21. Kassanda 33. Mayuge 45. Rukiga
9. Butambala 22. Katakwi 34. Mbarara 46. Soroti
10. Dokolo 23. Kiboga 35. Mityana 47. Tororo
11. Gomba 24. Kibuku 36. Mukono 48. Wakiso
12. Gulu 25. Kisoro 37. Napak 49. Zombo
13. Iganga
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The increased access to water for agricultural production by our farmers has resulted in
high yields in the irrigated areas.
Kyamate small-scale irrigation scheme in Ntungamo district
A farmer in his cotton plantation at Kyondo in Nyamwamba division, Kasese Municipality
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 97

c. Construction of six medium-scale irrigation schemes is ongoing as follows:
TABLE 4: MEDIUM-SCALE IRRIGATION SCHEMES

SCHEME LOCATION STATUS
1. Rwengaaju Kabarole district 70% complete
2. Tochi (500ha) Oyam district 86% complete
3. Mubuku-II (480ha) Kasese district 63% complete
4. Doho-II (1,178ha) Butaleja district 80.5% complete
5. Ngenge (880ha) Kween district 87.5% complete
6. Wadelai (1,000ha) Pakwach district 53% complete
These will increase to 3,976ha under irrigation.
d. Construction of another 70 small-scale irrigation schemes is ongoing in the following

districts:
TABLE 5: SMALL-SCALE IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

1. Agago 14. Buvuma 27. Kibaale 40. Mpigi
2. Alebtong 15. Gulu 28. Koboko 41. Nakaseke
3. Amolatar 16. Hoima 29. Kole 42. Napak
4. Amuria 17. Ibanda 30. Kumi 43. Nebbi
5. Apac 18. Isingiro 31. Kwania 44. Ntungamo
6. Arua 19. Kaabong 32. Kyankwanzi 45. Omoro
7. Budaka 20. Kaberamaido 33. Kyenjojo 46. Oyam
8. Buhweju 21. Kalangala 34. Lira 47. Pader
9. Bukedea 22. Kanungu 35. Lwengo 48. Rakai
10. Bukwo 23. Kapchwora 36. Lyantonde 49. Rukungiri
11. Busia 24. Kapelebyong 37. Maracha 50. Serere
12. Butambala 25. Kassanda 38. Mbale 51. Soroti
13. Butebo 26. Kayunga 39. Moyo 52. Yumbe
e. Completed reconstruction of Mabira dam in Mbarara district with a total storage

capacity of 1,443,959 cubic metres.
f. Water supply was extended to the following industrial parks; Bweyogerere Industrial
and Business Park, Luzira Industrial and Business Park, Kasese Industrial and Business
Park and Soroti Industrial and Business Park.
98 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

WAY FORWARD
a. NRM is going to establish new bulk water systems for multipurpose use for dams, water
abstraction, transmission and distribution to industrial zones and other points of use
across the country. New storage facilities are going to be constructed in the following
areas:
i. Kyenshama Dam in Mbarara district.
ii. Geregere Dam in Agago district.
iii. Kyahi Dam in Gomba district.
iv. Lemsui Dam in Nakapiripirit and Amudat districts.
v. Nakonyeni Dam in Moroto district.
vi. Nangolo-apolon Dam in Kotido district.
vii. Ojama Dam in Serere district.
viii. Construction of nine communal valley tanks in Kotido,
Moroto, Amudat and Nakapiripirit districts.
b. NRM is going to construct 500 private valley tanks and 120 communal valley tanks
for livestock watering in the cattle corridor districts with affirmative action offered to
particular areas.
c. In addition, we are going to establish new small, medium and large-scale irrigation
schemes to exploit the existing potential for sustainable agricultural production and
productivity. NRM is going to construct more irrigation schemes as follows:
i. Kabuyanda in Isingiro district.
ii. Matanda in Kanungu district.
iii. Amagoro and Angololo in Tororo district.
iv. Namatala in Mbale.
v. Budaka and Butaleja districts.
vi. Namalu in Nakapiripirit district.
vii. Unyama in Gulu and Amuru districts.
viii. Sipi in Bulambuli district.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 99

ix. Acomai in Bekedea district.

x. Atar in Bulambuli and Kween districts.
xi. Enengo in Rukungiri and Kanungu districts.
xii. Imvempi in Arua district.
xiii. Purongo in Amuru district.
xiv. Lopei in Napak district.
xv. Palyec in Nwoya district.
d. We will also support the creation of water for production storage capacity by private
farmers. Furthermore, we will work with local stakeholders and leaders to design an
amicable solution for the Balusambu water dam on River Manafwa.
e. We shall also extend water supply to the following industrial parks:
i. Kashari Agricultural Park in Mbarara.
ii. Mbale Industrial and Business Park.
iii. Kapeeka Industrial and Business Park.
iv. Karamoja Industrial and Business Park.
v. Jinja Industrial and Business Park.
3.2.1. WATER RESEARCH AND INNOVATIONS

NRM is going to continue to protect and manage the quantity and quality of water
resources to ensure maximum benefits for production and guarantee access to water
resources and security for all sectors of the economy.
The country is faced with the challenge presented by climatic change, which has caused
floods, droughts and landslides in various parts of the country. Not only have these
caused death and displaced people in some areas but also resulted in the destruction
of infrastructure like hydropower dams, roads, bridges, manufacturing industries, schools
and agricultural fields. Therefore, sound catchment management practices in mitigating
drought and flood risks are critical in reducing the average cost of maintenance and the
100 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026
likely rebuilding of lost infrastructure, settlements and people’s livelihoods. In particular,

NRM is going to:
a. Ensure safety of the HEP dams from all possible dangers like flooding, moving islands
and weeds.
b. Maintenance of water bodies, including dredging/desilting, cleaning and

management of water weeds.
c. Develop water source protection plans and implement investment and management
measures upstream of the water sources to ensure their sustainability and protection
of people’s livelihoods and property.
d. Integrated flood and drought protection and weather forecasting centre.
e. Digitise real-time data and information technology for timely water information
services to enhance infrastructure resilience in water resources development.
f. Develop water demand management and water use efficiency tools and improve
water security.
g. Strengthen co-ordination and co-operation on national and trans-boundary water

management projects and programmes.
h. Demarcate and stabilise boundaries and buffer zones of water bodies, including
popularising the new boundaries to neighbouring communities.
i. Manage the surrounding landscapes and buffer zones to reduce erosion and flow of
sediments into water bodies.
j. Prioritise catchment protection activities upstream of the water retention structures to

ensure their sustainability.
k. Develop legal and institutional frameworks for basins and sub-basin co-operation
and conflict resolution in the management and development of the shared water
resource.
l. Promote tools that prevent and minimise pollution.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 101

3.3.
THE PARISH MODEL:
WHAT AND HOW IT IS GOING TO WORK
In order to transform the 68.9% of Ugandans in subsistence farming, NRM will adopt a
science-led parish model to reach homesteads that are still in the moneyless economy.
3.3.1. WHAT IS NEW?

The parish is going to be the vehicle for data gathering, area-based enterprise selection
and development, co-operatives and financial services development, community
mobilisation and mindset change. Furthermore, it will be the centre for multi-stakeholder/
sectoral co-ordination, and providing feedback on Government services.
For instance, the multiplication and distribution of inputs is going to be guided by science
and markets at parish level to address the perennial challenges of input distribution
such as poor quality seedlings and breeds, untimely delivery and the high failure rate.
Furthermore, it will tackle misuse of drugs and agro-chemicals, poor agronomic and
husbandry practices.
In addition, the parish model will help NRM deal with high post-harvest losses, poor
planning, bulking and produce marketing, low commodity prices (farmers’ exploitation by
middlemen) and inability to track progress, identify gaps and timely mitigation measures.
3.3.2. HOW WILL IT WORK?

The parish chief is going to be the co-ordinator of all Government efforts at the parish
and report to the sub-county chief.
NRM’s focus will be on the household, which will be supported scientifically, right
from soil testing to provision of inputs, extension services, mechanisation, post-harvest
management and marketing.
There will be different channels of reaching a household, depending on the circumstances

in the regions. In all regions, a parish development committee will be formed, comprising
state and non-state actors. It will also consist of the LCI and LCII chairpersons, area co-
operative society, elders, religious and cultural leaders, chaired by the parish chief.
102 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

The parish chief will also mobilise and bring together the leadership of all groups/societies
to form a Parish Co-operative Association (PCA). They will be ex-officio members on the
PCAs in their areas in addition to being signatories to the PCA accounts since the funds
are coming from the Government.
In addition to identifying individual participating PCAs, parish chiefs will co-ordinate

training and supervise them for successful implementation of interventions and ensuring
regular reporting.
Through this approach, NRM will consolidate the scattered Government services to focus
on the following:
a. Stimulation of production and productivity: Building on the achievements under

OWC, NRM will address production and productivity constraints beginning with effective
logistics management, dissemination of research findings on soil testing, high-yielding
varieties and pest control.
NRM will ensure that all households actively participate in the monetised economy by
engaging in high-value enterprises. If, for instance, a parish has 1,000 households and
200 of them have already benefited from OWC, the target will be to reach the rest in
a phased manner. Each household will ultimately receive agricultural inputs. This effort
will be science-led and well-co-ordinated, learning from experience to achieve better
results.
b. Financial Services: NRM will support a SACCO in each of the 10,046 parishes in Uganda,
putting emphasis on the rural areas engaged in agriculture. Members can borrow from
the parish SACCO to support their productive and income-generating activities. The
SACCO can also act as an agent of various banks under the agency banking policy,
thus deepening of financial services.
A sub-county SACCO will co-ordinate all parish SACCOs in the sub-county and be the
intermediaries of all Government programmes that require financial support. NRM will
also support agricultural financing by working closely with the private sector to create a
more inclusive agricultural finance system at parish level.
Over the next five years, NRM is going to incentivise private sector financial service
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 103
providers to support the established Government channels to provide low-cost financing

for the agro-industrialisation drive. The urban areas are already being supported under
Emyooga (See Page 108).
c. Produce and Marketing Co-operatives: NRM will work with all relevant stakeholders
to revive the over 35 traditional co-operatives and fully support them to re-establish full
operations.
NRM will also encourage and support the setting up of new co-operatives. From
“Kinakulya Growers” of 1913 and “Buganda Growers Association” (1920), to several co-
operative unions which were formed in the early 1950s, an average Ugandan farmer
was organised under co-operatives. They accessed good quality inputs, received
good prices, saved and accessed low-cost credit, built decent houses and owned
assets. However, beginning in the late 1960s, the co-operatives started a journey to self-
destruction when they exhibited severe mismanagement and corruption. The managers
massively cheated their financially ignorant members, a majority of whom had never
stepped into a classroom. This created the classic principal-agent problem, where the
educated managers (the agents) took advantage of the members’ illiteracy and inability
to monitor them to embezzle funds and asset-strip at will.
The political conflicts and wars of the 1970s and 1980s, as well as the liberalisation policies
of the 1990s are often blamed on NRM, but it found the co-operatives on their sickbeds.
However, now that NRM has educated Ugandans and literacy levels are as high as 76%,
we are going to revive co-operatives and support the creation of new ones where they
did not exist.
d. Agricultural Extension Services: NRM’s policy is to have extension service officers,

namely; agricultural officer, veterinary officer and a fisheries officer (where it applies) at
every sub-county.
So far, 4,063 extension service officers have been recruited. We will continue recruiting
to ensure that every sub-county has them. The parish chief will ensure that extension
services effectively serve all farmers in the parish.
In carrying out their duties, the extension service officers should identify one farmer in a
village and invite others to teach them from one farm. The officers will have to account
104 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

to the sub-county chief and the chief administrative officer on such activities held every
quarter.
e. Access to Fertilisers: Fertiliser usage in Uganda is very low and almost negligible. This
affects yields and results in low incomes. For example, growing maize without fertilisers
yields about one tonne per acre, while with application of fertilisers, it goes up to five
tonnes per acre. Farmers will be encouraged to use fertilisers so as to improve the yield
and, hence, their incomes. NRM will help sort out the challenges faced by the fertiliser
factory in Tororo so that it can start production.
The Government will use the input-voucher system to help farmers get fertilisers.
f. Water Services: Out of 68,731 villages in Uganda, 48,338 villages have at least one clean
water source, which represents 70% access to water. Out of 20,393 unserved villages, 9,217
are in the rural areas.
Under the water sector, NRM plans to have a water source in every village in a cost-effective
way. Instead of hiring the private sector to drill boreholes — like we did with roads when we
purchased road equipment from Japan — we will buy drilling rigs so that the Government
does the work. This will reduce costs significantly.
The parish chief will be following up with the district water engineer on the programme of
providing clean water to unserved villages. The chief will also follow up on the repair of
water sources in the parish. This same water can be used to irrigate crops.
g. Promotion of agro-based cottage industries: Small-scale agro-based cottage industries

are projected to be the engines of growth and job creation. To this end, NRM is going to
invest in these industries to uplift local communities across the country.
Key areas of investment include grain processing for food and animal feeds production,
coffee hullers, honey harvesting and processing, oil seed processing, ghee and butter
processing in addition to agro-waste harnessing and conversion.
The agro-based cottage industry interventions will be carried out in 20 sub-zones across the
country, in close collaboration with the Youth and Women Skilling Programme elaborated
in Section 2.2.6 - Page 70.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 105

h. Other services: Other parish model services include community libraries, adult learning
classes, sports and fitness, performing arts, home management skilling and others.
3.3.3. THE FOUR ACRE APPROACH UNDER THE PARISH MODEL

NRM recommends 14 production lines for high returns per acre, annually. These are:
one acre for clonal coffee; one acre for fruits (mangoes, oranges and pineapples); one
acre for food crops for the family (cassava, bananas, upland rice or irrigation rice, Irish
potatoes, sorghum or millet); one acre for pasture for dairy cattle (eight of them); poultry
for eggs in the backyard (ekanyima); piggery; and fish farming along the edges of the
wetlands (not in the centre).
For example, coffee, on one acre, can earn Ush18 million, fruits Ush12 million and milk
Ush8 million. With poultry and piggery, the sky is the limit, as long as you buy them food
— you can keep a large number in the backyard. With the four fish ponds at Kawumu,
on half an acre, the earning is Ush64 million per year. This is the first rescue plan for the
concerned families, but also for the country, especially those who still have four acres of
land.
3.3.4. THOSE WITH LESS THAN FOUR ACRES

The second way is for those families that don’t have the four acres. Some have as low as a
quarter of an acre. What do they do? NRM recommends the following farming activities:
poultry, piggery, onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, zero-grazing dairy cattle, apples and
grapes.
However, these families will have to depend on buying food for the livestock (poultry,
horticulture, dairy cattle and pigs) and for themselves because they don’t have
enough land. Again, where all this is provided, there is no more land fragmentation or
fragmentation of property. This is the recommended “rescue” plan number two for the
families that have less than the four acres. They can still be prosperous, provided they
know how to handle the “disability” of the land.
106 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

3.3.5. THOSE WITH MORE THAN FOUR ACRES

The third way is to guide households with six acres and more. They should first apply the
four-acre approach, then borrow ideas from the second way, putting the ‘disabled’ land
to use.
If the four acres have been put to use, then the rest can be used to grow low-value
crops of one’s choice say sugarcane, cotton, tobacco and maize. Therefore, the
CDO, tobacco groups, the grain council, beef farmers, through the parish chief should
enumerate homesteads with six acres and above and enter into agreements with them
to produce those crops for the country. This is in addition to the high-value activities that
they are free to engage in.
Fortunately, the medium and large-scale farmers have got more flexibility. NRM will not
let this opportunity slip away. That is why land fragmentation must be decampaigned.
3.3.6. LARGE-SCALE LANDOWNERS

The fourth way is that of the plantation owners. These have a lot of land and use it, usually,
for an industrial mono-crop such as sugarcane, tea and palm oil. The Government will
assist these groups.
NRM assisted plantation owners, including Atiak Sugar Factory and the tea factories in
Ankole and Kigezi areas and will continue helping more over the next five years. Through
UDB, we will also support the cassava growers in northern Uganda to produce cassava
commercially so as to support the starch industry and process other by-products from it.
Therefore, four ways out of the seven of creating wealth and jobs are in agriculture. All
the above four categories — the four-acre model, those with less than four acres, those
with slightly more than four acres and large scale farmers — will be supported by NRM
government because they are central in the development of Uganda.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 107

3.4. FUNDING OPTIONS FOR RURAL TRANSFORMATION

Money is no longer our problem. The problem is poor prioritisation, co-ordination,
supervision and corruption. This is going to stop.
Resources under OWC programmes, Emyooga Funds, Women Entrepreneurs Fund,

Youth Livelihood Fund, Microfinance Support Centre and Innovation Fund are sufficient
to cause the transformation NRM is looking for. These funds have existed all this time and
some have caused a notable impact.
For example, the Youth Livelihood Programme has disbursed Ush160.2 billion in the
last four years. This has benefited 20,159 youth projects, creating about 200,000 direct
and 500,000 indirect jobs. Under the Youth Venture Capital Fund which is operated
through Centenary Bank, a total of Ush138 billion has been accessed by 32,748 youth
entrepreneurs, which is 11% since 2011. NRM has also supported various Jua Kali groups
across the country.
Under the Women Entrepreneurship Fund, a total of Ush106.3 billion has been disbursed
in the last four years, benefiting 10,922 women groups with a total of 135,873 women.
NRM government continues to support the elderly through the Social Assistance Grant
for Empowerment (SAGE) and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs). These programmes will
continue and expand for more to benefit from them.
For the bigger players and innovators, NRM government has committed money through
UDB, which gives loans for agriculture, manufacturing and tourism at a 12% interest rate.
In the next term of office, NRM is going to create three more funds to boost the wealth
and job-creation campaign.
3.4.1. FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO THE INFORMAL SECTOR - EMYOOGA

NRM set up the Emyooga Fund. Emyooga is derived from a local dialect (Runyankole) to
refer to specialised skill enterprises/groups. We are going to use it to support 18 specialised
enterprises namely: bodabodas, women entrepreneurs, carpenters, salon operators, taxi
operators, restaurant owners, welders, market vendors, youth leaders, PWDs, produce
108 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

dealers, mechanics, tailors, journalists, performing artistes, veterans, fishermen and

elected leaders.
The Emyooga Fund is to be administered by the Microfinance Support Centre (MSC) so

as to reach all small businesses.
Each of the above groups will form a SACCO, which should be joined by all willing
persons. The SACCOs will be organised at constituency level with operations at parish
level through established parish associations of 7-30 members. All economically active
Ugandans aged 18 years and above will benefit from this initiative. Except for Kampala
and Wakiso, each of the elected leaders’ myooga at constituency level shall receive
Ush50 million, while the other 17 will receive Ush30 million each. In total, each constituency
will receive Ush560 million, while Kampala and Wakiso get Ush50 billion.
However, members under the youth category should not exceed 35 years of age. To be
a member of Omwooga, one must be engaged in one of the 18 enterprises targeted by
this programme.
For the FY2020/21, NRM government has budgeted Ush210 billion for the Emyooga Fund.
We will increase the funding in the subsequent years and ensure that all SACCOs benefit.
3.4.2. SUPPORT TO ELECTED LEADERS

Under Emyooga, NRM has catered for elected leaders, including LCI committee members,
councillors at different levels, chairpersons and executive committee members at all
levels in every district. These leaders get low or no pay yet they sacrifice their time to work
for the betterment of Uganda. They don’t receive Government funds for fear that they
could selfishly use them. The solution, therefore, is to create a separate SACCOs fund for
elected leaders — past and present. Once a leader, always a leader.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 109

4. INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT
4.1. INTRODUCTION
When NRM took over power, amidst a multitude of problems that Uganda faced,
inadequate infrastructure was particularly serious. The country faced huge infrastructural
gaps ranging from rampant electricity outages (load shedding), roads with potholes
as well as few, expensive and unreliable telephone services. After securing the country
and working on a minimum economic recovery programme, NRM embarked on a
development agenda, starting with closing the infrastructure gap in order to provide a
foundation for development-oriented investment.
Infrastructure plays an important role in economic growth, leading to the improvement

of people’s standard of living. Productivity in virtually every sector of the economy is
affected by the quality and performance of the country’s infrastructure, making it critical
in competitiveness and ability to harness national, regional and global potential.
4.2. ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE

NRM inherited a country with hydro-electricity generation capacity of 150 megawatts
(MW) in FY1986/87 and only 60MW was being generated. This low electricity generation
affected development and in particular industrialisation.
In 2005, a decision was taken to invest in power generation so as to stem low supply. By
the end of 2020, hydropower generation will stand at 1,868MW with the commissioning
of Karuma (600MW).
NRM has also promoted other sources of energy including solar, geothermal, nuclear,
thermal and bagasse energy.
We are currently faced with a ‘good problem’ — surplus electricity. Total demand
including exports was 680MW in June 2020, providing a surplus of close to 1,160MW.
However, this surplus will be no more with increased industrialisation, improved transmission,
110 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

reduced costs, and efficiency in distribution. We are now dealing with the challenges of
industrialisation, transmission, distribution and cost.
Table 6 below shows the current energy consumption in Uganda. It is clear from the
table that NRM is a visionary political party. When we took a decision to build a number
of dams to generate electricity, some people argued that we were wasting resources
by over-investing in energy generation when current demand was very low. But NRM
knew that to transform the country, we needed electricity and even more to power our
development agenda.
As observed in the table, 37 (extra-large) factories consume more electricity than

domestic users in the country, totalling 1.5 million households. Therefore, when we open
all factories that we have attracted and develop more, the current power generated
will be fully consumed. With increased consumption of power, there will be a reduction
in the cost of electricity.
TABLE 6: ENERGY CONSUMPTION PER CUSTOMER CATEGORY

CONSUMPTION PERCENTAGE 2019 CONSUMPTION
CATEGORY
(GWH) % NUMBERS
1. Domestic 698.0 21.6 1,455,153
2. Commercial 367.0 11.4 120,467
3. Medium Industrial 507.0 15.7 2,859
4. Large Industrial 891.0 27.6 559
5. Extra-Large Industrial 763.0 23.6 37
6. Streetlights 1.3 0.04 248
TOTAL 3,227.3 99.94 1,579,322
Source. Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development
4.2.1. PROGRESS
a. Power generation
As pointed out above, hydropower generation will soon stand at 1,868MW with the
commissioning of Karuma. Construction of Isimba Dam (183MW) and Ayago II Dam
(42MW) was completed. Karuma Dam (600MW) works were at 98% by July 2020, while
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 111

the construction of substations and transmission lines is at 80%.
The following small dams were commissioned;
TABLE 7: COMMISSIONED DAMS

DAM MEGAWATTS
1. Kikagati 14.0
2. Kyambura 7.6
3. Lubilia 5.4
4. Muvumbe 6.5
5. Ndugutu 5.9
6. Nkusi 9.6
7. Nyamagasani I 15.0
8. Nyamwamba 9.2
9. Rwimi 5.54
10. Sindila 5.24
11. Situ II 16.5
12. Situ1 5.0
13. Tororo Solar 10.0
14. Waki 4.8
TOTAL 120.28
The following small dams are under construction;
TABLE 8: DAMS UNDER CONSTRUCTION

DAM MEGA WATTS
1. Achwa I (41MW) 41.0
2. Bukinda (6.5MW) 6.5
3. Busitema University Solar 4.0
Power (4MW)
4. Kakaka (4.6MW) 4.6
5. Muyembe (6.9MW) 6.9
6. Muzizi (44MW) 44.0
7. Nyagak III (5.5MW) 5.5
8. Nyamagasani II (6MW) 6.0
TOTAL 118.5
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b. Rural electrification
Access to electricity is at the heart of socio-economic development. It impacts on a wide

range of development indicators, including health, education, food security, gender
equality, livelihoods and poverty reduction.
Whoever grew up in a village remembers a life without electricity. Some villages are now
connected to the national grid and have steady supply of power. More villages are to be
connected over the next five years.
There was a time of intermittent power cuts or load shedding. People had become used
to that and it became a way of life. Today, any slight failure in power supply upsets
everyone and is considered a big issue. This confirms that there is a steady supply of
electricity, which people are now used to. NRM knows that providing electricity to all
Ugandans is about serving humanity.
Without electricity, the provision of modern public health services becomes a daunting
task. With lights at night, all children can study under similar conditions. Many now have
TVs, not only for entertainment, but also for learning more about the rest of the world.
With electricity, the use of electrical appliances such as fridges is on the rise. Furthermore,
appliances like fridges, salon equipment and cookers are being used by many Ugandans
to generate incomes, which explains the need for a steady supply of electricity.
Electrifying districts
By 1986, only 20 (about half) out of 39 district headquarters were connected to the
national grid. Today, only four (Kaabong, Karenga, Kotido and Buvuma) out of 135
districts are not yet connected.
Work on taking power to Kaabong and Kotido is ongoing and will be completed by
December 2020. The Government is also going to look for approximately Ush45 billion
required to supply both Buvuma and Sigulu islands with electricity.
To increase rural electrification, NRM has constructed over 14,820km of Medium Voltage
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 113

In order to increase the consumption of electricity, NRM is making connections to homes easier and affordable
(MV) power lines and approximately 10,000km of Low Voltage (LV) power distribution
lines. This has translated into the connecting of over 1,000,000 consumers onto the
national grid.
According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics Baseline Survey of 2019, access to electricity
has improved from 20% (on grid) in 2015/16 (it was 7% in 1986) to 51% (on and off grid) in
2019/20. The 51% comprises 24% access to the national grid and 27% access through off-
grid (through mini-grids, solar home systems and others).
In addition, about 6,000km of MV power lines and 5,000km of LV power lines are under
implementation with 1,500km of MV power lines and 2,000km of LV power lines under
procurement.
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Electrifying sub-counties
In October 2019, NRM commenced on the Project for Bridging the Demand Supply
Balance Gap through the Accelerated Rural Electrification Programme that is supplying
electricity to sub-county headquarters.
Under the project, over 4,000km of MV networks and over 6,000km of LV networks
shall be constructed to provide electricity to 620 unserved sub-county headquarters
countrywide. These include 558 sub-county headquarters, 52 town councils and 10
division headquarters.
Construction started in October 2019 in 20 districts: Kumi, Kapchorwa, Namutumba,

Isingiro, Kassanda, Kyegegwa, Kibaale, Omoro, Otuke, Madi-okolo, Arua, Adjumani,
Kiboga, Kanungu, Bundibugyo, Agago, Buyende, Bukedea, Kole and Apac.
Easing connecting power to homes
In order to increase the consumption of electricity, NRM is making connections to homes

easier and affordable. Under this policy which started in 2018, the Government subsidises
the cost of electricity connection materials, enabling citizens who are ready for electricity
consumption to benefit. Over 300,000 household connections are targeted annually.
c. Grid intensification
Alongside these grid extension projects, the Government is also implementing grid
intensification and densification projects aimed at connecting areas with suppressed
demand within the existing national grid footprint. These projects target the connection
of underserved load centres and centres within a 2km footprint of the existing grid. This
will be through transformer injections, expansion of the LV reticulation network and short
expansions of the medium voltage network, mainly targeting highly populated areas
such as municipalities, divisions and busy trading centres countrywide.
NRM is also facilitating the evacuation of power from various small hydropower plants
countrywide through the get-fit programme. Over 70% of these projects have been
completed, with the remaining currently under construction and shall be due for
completion by the end of 2020.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 115

d. Transmission and connections

The following transmission projects were completed:
i. Kawanda-Masaka T-Line 220kV, 137km line.
ii. Kawanda and Masaka substations.
iii. Nkenda-Fort Portal 220kV line.
iv. Fort Portal-Hoima line and associated substations.
v. Isimba- Bujagali Interconnection project 132kV, 41km line.
vi. Bujagali-Tororo 220kV, 127km.
vii. Mbarara – Mirama 220kV, 66km line.
viii. Mbarara-Nkenda 132kV, 160km line.
ix. 132kV Kawanda-Kapeeka, 54km transmission line and 20MVA substation at Kapeeka.
x. Tororo – Opuyo – Lira 132kV, 260km transmission line.
xi. Iganga 2x40MVA substation, Mukono 3x60MVA substation.
xii. 132kV Iganga T-off, 10km transmission line.
xiii. 132kV Mukono T-off, 5km transmission line.
xiv. Additional transformation capacity on grid installed at Kawanda substation
Isimba Hydropower Project located on the border of Kayunga and Kamuli districts was commissioned in March 2019
116 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

(40MVA), Kampala North (40MVA) and Lira (40MVA).

xv. Queensway substation, construction of substations and transmission lines to four
Industrial Parks is as follows: Iganga and Mukono substations were completed; Luzira
substation is at 98%; Mukono Industrial Park, 132kV transmission line (5km) and Iganga
industrial park, 132kV double circuit transmission line (12km) completed.
As of June 2020, the following transmission projects were at various stages of

implementation:
i. Karuma-Kawanda 400kV 254km, Karuma-Lira 132kV 75km, and Karuma-Olwiyo 400kV
60km lines plus associated substations. Construction ongoing at 96% completion;
and projected completion in November 2020.
ii. Karuma 400/132kV Substation is at 58%.
iii. Kawanda 400/220kV substation is at 60%.
iv. Lira Substation is at 50%.
v. Bujagali Substation is at 82%.
vi. Tororo Substation is at 87%.
vii. Mbarara Substation is at 98%.
viii. 132kV Mirama-Kabale transmission line, 80km — Procurement of contractor was
completed. Works will be completed within two years.
ix. Mirama Substation at 75%.
x. Mutundwe-Entebbe 132kV, 24km — Construction work commenced. To be
completed by December 2020.
xi. Opuyo substations upgrade — Construction work ongoing.
xii. 132kV Opuyo-Moroto transmission line, 168km and associated substations at Moroto
and Opuyo — Work has started. To be completed by December 2020.
xiii. 132kV Lira-Gulu-Nebbi-Arua transmission line, 293km and associated substations
- Procurement of contractor was completed. Works will be completed within two
years, by mid-2022.
xiv. 400kV Masaka-Mbarara transmission line, 135km — Procurement of contractor is
ongoing.
xv. Gulu – Agago 132kV overhead transmission line and associated 132/33kV substations
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 117

project — Procurement of contractor is at final stages. The works will be completed

within two years of commencement.
xvi. 132 kV Mbale-Bulambuli transmission line — technical feasibility studies were
completed.
4.2.2 WAY FORWARD

a. NRM is determined to reduce the cost of power, particularly for manufacturers to 5
cents of US$ (Ush185) per unit from the present 8.7 cents of US$ (Ush321). It used to be
10 cents US$ (Ush370). By solving the mistake of the expensive financing of the Bujagali
Hydropower Project, we shall attain the 5 cents target for manufacturing. The power of
Kiira and Nalubaale is at 1.1 cents US$ per unit. The power of Isimba is at 4.16 cents US$
per unit. The one of Karuma will be at 4.97 cents US$ per unit. Furthermore, as we get rid of
the deem power problem as more industries come on line, the cost of power will reduce
substantially.
b. Increase access and utilisation of electricity by:

i. Continuing with the programme of electrifying sub-counties. Construction of power
lines to 71 districts headquarters and potential growth centres (welding, carpentry,
milk coolers and milling) will commence in December 2020 while construction in
the remaining districts will start in 2021. When these connections are completed in
2023, all the sub-counties will have electricity. This is a real milestone in the history of
Uganda happening under NRM leadership. As indicated above, we had to start with
increasing power generation.
ii. Expanding the transmission network to key growth economic zones (industrial and
science parks, mining areas and free zones).
iii. Continuing with the programme of free connections to households.
c. Expanding and rehabilitating the distribution network including rural and hard-to-
reach areas (grid expansion and densification, last-mile connections, evacuation of
small generation plants and quality of supply projects).
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d. Reducing the share of charcoal and firewood (biomass energy) used for cooking from
85% to 50%.
To achieve this, NRM will:

i. Promote the uptake of alternative and efficient cooking technologies, including rural
areas (electric cooking, domestic and institutional biogas and liquefied petroleum
gas (LPG). Studies show it is cheaper to cook using electricity and LPG than charcoal
and firewood (biomass), especially in urban centres. We will remove taxes on electric
and LPG cookers and related infrastructure. Furthermore, we will develop LPG
infrastructure countrywide to make it more accessible and affordable. We will also
deal with mindset change.
ii. Promote use of biogas where it is viable, for domestic lighting, cooking, manure and
fertiliser use.
e. Increase grid reliability to ensure that the power delivered to the consumers is within
accepted standards and in the desired amount. We are going to deal with the problem of
power outages, especially when it rains, through continuous investment in infrastructure.
f. Complete ongoing transmission projects in Section 4.2.1 above.
g. Increase transmission capacity from 2,354km to 4,354km of high-transmission lines.
h. Establish charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
i. Connect West Nile to the national grid.
Implementation of the Government’s long-term solution of connecting the West Nile

sub-region to the national grid is ongoing. Procurement of the contractors to undertake
construction works for the 132kV Lira–Gulu–Nebbi–Arua transmission line and associated
substations was concluded in March 2020. The project sites were handed over to the
contractors in August 2020. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of
2022. The line will not only connect West Nile to the national grid, but also provide power
supply reliably to northern Uganda as follows:
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l Construction of 301km of 132kV Lira–Gulu–Nebbi–Arua transmission line. The line will

have capacity to supply not less than 200MW.
l A switchyard at Kole to enable the line connect to the national grid.
l A substation in Gulu with the capacity to supply 80MVA.
l A substation in Nebbi with the capacity to supply 40MVA.
l A substation in Arua with the capacity to supply 80MVA.
l 33kV short power lines connecting substations to the existing distribution network.
Construction of the 400kV Karuma–Olwiyo transmission line with a substation at Olwiyo

nearing completion. This line is being constructed under the Karuma Hydropower Project.
It should be noted that the 132kV Lira–Gulu–Nebbi–Arua transmission line will connect
to Olwiyo substation and, therefore, West Nile (Nebbi and Arua substations) will have a
second option of getting power from Karuma through Olwiyo substation.
4.3. RAILWAY TRANSPORT

Uganda is linked to the sea through two routes, — Mombasa and Dar es Salaam —
known as the Northern and Central corridors, respectively.
In 1922, Lord Lugard stated:
“The development of the African continent is impossible without the railway, and any
built reasonably cheaply through a populous country is bound to be remunerative.”
Most studies suggest that there was a direct causal relationship between the building of
the Uganda Railway and the development of a commercial economy. And that the key
to Uganda’s material advancement was the arrival of the Uganda Railway at Kisumu
(then called Port Florence) in January 1902. The line served the steamers of 150–525 tonne
capacity brought into operation between 1903 and 1907, which sailed to Entebbe, Jinja,
Munyonyo and Port Bell in 1913.
The opening of the railway led to substantial export trade rising from £29,450 in 1902 to
£178,608 in 1907 and £607,253 in 1913. There was similar increase in the value of imports,
120 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

An artistic impression of Gulu Railway Hub
President Museveni (right) talks to one of the technocrats during the ground-breaking ceremony for rehabilitation of
Tororo-Gulu Railway line in Gulu district in October 2020
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 121

the figures for the same years being £75,038, £371,568 and £940,160, respectively.
Until 1902, any imports or exports had to be carried by porters over 600 miles, and the
costs exceeded £300 per tonne.
NRM is continuing with the rehabilitation of the railway line including Tororo-Gulu link
(375km), Gulu–Pakwach (134km), Kampala-Kasese (333km) and Jinja-Mbulamuti-
Busembatia (146km).
Efforts to redevelop inland water transport on Lake Victoria to complement railway

transport are underway. Procurement of rolling stock (locomotives and wagons),
rehabilitation of ferries (MV Pamba, MV Mwanga and MV Mivule) and the remodelling
of Port Bell and Jinja Pier as well as rehabilitation of access rails have started. The
ports of Majanji (Busia), Lambu (Masaka) and Kibanga (Mukono) are also going to be
redeveloped.
NRM still plans to develop the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) under the auspices of the
Northern Corridor Integration Projects (NCIP) Protocol. SGR is a top priority project for
NRM. The network is being developed as a seamless regional railway project with the
NCIP partner states of Kenya, Rwanda and South Sudan. It will stretch from Mombasa
through Nairobi to Kampala, Kigali and Juba.
In addition, outside the NCIP arrangement, the SGR network will also connect to the
Tanzania SGR through the planned Bukasa port on Lake Victoria and to DR Congo
through Vurra (northwestern Uganda) and Mpondwe border (southwestern Uganda).
The SGR is part of NRM’s export-oriented strategy targeting 95% cargo and 5% passenger
services. Implementation of the SGR is underway and a number of opportunities are
anticipated, including:
l Local content worth at least US$700 million, all cement to be locally produced.
l 90% of reinforcement bars to be locally produced.
l Earth materials to be locally sourced.
l Labour to be acquired at a ratio of 9 Ugandans: 1 foreigner.
l Fuel and lubricants to be sourced locally.
Other opportunities include training, financial, insurance, communication, legal and
122 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

security services. Equipment hire and leasing, tourism and hospitality as well as medical
and health services will be available.
We are going to construct the SGR in a phased manner starting with Malaba-Kampala
route (273km), then Tororo-Gulu-Nimule/Gulu-Pakwach-Vurra (751km) and finally
Kampala-Bihanga/Mirama Hills/Bihanga-Kasese-Mpondwe (662km). In total, the SGR will
cover 1,724km.
4.3.1. PROGRESS
a. Rehabilitation of the Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) line.
This is what has been done:
i. Revived the southern route i.e. rehabilitated Port Bell-Kampala route (9km) and resumed
operations of MV Kaawa, connecting the Lake Victoria ports of Port Bell, Jinja, Mwanza
(Tanzania) and Kisumu (Kenya).
ii. Carried out spot improvement on the Kampala–Malaba route (Kampala-Namanve,
stabilising; Nagongera – repairs on curves).
iii. Rehabilitation works on Tororo-Gulu railway line (375km) — Contract signed;
Compensation/Resettlement Action Plan implementation commenced and
rehabilitation works in progress.
b. Railway Passenger Services.
This is intended to improve traffic flow in Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA).
Commenced passenger services and average ridership is 40,000 passengers per month.
There are plans to expand and improve the service across Greater Kampala, thus
Kampala-Nalukolongo-Bujuuko, Kampala-Port Bell and Kampala-Namanve passenger
service.
c. Construction of Gulu Logistics Hub — To serve northern Uganda, South Sudan and
eastern DRC. Construction of Gulu Inland Container Depot (ICD) commenced on 21st
February 2020.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 123

d. Progress on preparation works for SGR.
The following has been achieved:

i. An Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC)/Turnkey Contract for the eastern
and northern routes was signed. The scope of work was increased to include Bukasa
Port Spur, length of 4.5km; and fencing of the entire corridor and station areas.
ii. Financing negotiations are ongoing.
iii. The entire Right-of-Way (RoW) has been surveyed and assessment has been
completed for 97% of the entire route.
iv. Compensation of Project Affected Persons (PAPs) is ongoing in five out of 11 districts,
traversed by the Malaba-Kampala SGR eastern route.
The total land compensation cost estimate in 2016 was Ush534.2 billion for 9,372 PAPs.
So far 3,629 PAPs out of 9,372 have been paid. The total land paid for is 1,120 acres
(equivalent of 120km) out of 2,993 acres. The acquired land was cleared, demarcated
and is being protected from encroachers.
4.3.2. WAY FORWARD

a. Rehabilitate the Metre Gauge Railway (MGR)
NRM will:
i. Rehabilitate the current MGR line from Gulu to Pakwach and the Busoga loop (Jinja,
Mbulamuti and Busembatia). This together with the development of the Bukasa Inland
Port (with Jinja, Port Bell and Bukakata as feeder ports) will facilitate connections
across Lake Victoria to Kisumu onward to Mombasa and to Mwanza onward to Dar es
Salaam. This will increase access and reduce the travel time to Mombasa and Dar es
Salaam as well as increase volume of cargo to and from these two ports. This will also
reduce the overreliance on the Northern Corridor (that links the East African economic
centres to the world through Mombasa Port) as its major trade route.
ii. Repair and secure the MGR line from Kampala to Malaba to improve line stability, reduce
transit times, reduce accidents and deliver more cargo.
iii. Repair locomotives, wagons to improve haulage capacity; volumes carried, transit time,
and reduce accidents and deliver more cargo.
124 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

iv. Rehabilitation of fuel tanks in Kampala and Tororo to provide additional storage capacity
for fuel imports from Kisumu-Port Bell-Jinja.
v. Hire of reach stackers to handle the loading and offloading of containers in Kampala,
Mukono, Tororo and Malaba.
vi. Connect the railway line to industrial hubs.
b. Implement the SGR project

i. Concluding financing agreements for the SGR.
ii. Finalising land acquisition for Right-of-Way (RoW) by compensating the remaining PAPs.
iii. Ensuring national/local content mainstreaming in line with agreed upon contractual
arrangements. For instance, a reservation of up to 40% (US$907.6 million) of the contract
value to be implemented under local content and 90% of the workers during construction
being Ugandan nationals. All the cement will be locally sourced and significant amounts
of steel will be procured from Uganda.
iv. Human Resource Capacity Development. This will provide a new generation of workforce
with the requisite technical expertise to run the SGR.
v. Connecting electricity to traction substations: UETCL will supply electricity to the SGR thus
increasing the local content value of the project.
vi. Establishing industrial parks, inland container depots along the Malaba-Kampala route.
vii. Developing Majanji Port as a second gateway to the eastern and northern parts of
Uganda as well as South Sudan and the northern part of DR Congo.
viii. Developing Rubongi Roads and Railway Polytechnic. As part of the project, a railway
and roads polytechnic will be built in Rubongi — Tororo district to the benefit of Uganda
and the region.
c. Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Light Rail Train System (GKMA LRT)
Develop the GKMA LRT system to serve the areas of Kampala, Wakiso, Mpigi and Mukono.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 125

4.4. WATER TRANSPORT

Water transport is the cheapest and the oldest mode of transport. NRM has a plan to
improve and expand existing marine infrastructure to reduce the cost of transportation
and increase Uganda’s connectivity to the region and accelerate regional trade. Efforts
to redevelop inland water transport on Lake Victoria to complement the railway are
underway. Below is the progress made and what NRM is going to work on over the next
five years:
a. Modernisation of Port Bell and Jinja Pier. Engineering designs for both ports were
completed.
b. Improvement of navigation safety and security on water. Provide high-speed security

boats for policing and emergency response.
c. Repairs to MV Kaawa to enable her return in business and facilitate the newly-agreed
triangular operations through Kisumu-Port Bell-Mwanza-Kisumu.
d. Rehabilitation of MV Pamba.
e. Procurement of the following ferries was completed: a second ferry on Lake Bisina, a
second ferry on Sigulu Islands, a ferry on Wanseko-Panyimur crossing and a second
ferry on Namasale-Zengebe crossing on Lake Kyoga.
f. A ferry for Bukungu-Kagwara-Kaberamaido is under tendering while the one on Lake

Bunyonyi is under design.
4.5. AIR TRANSPORT

NRM recently revived the national airline, which our neo-liberalists had mistakenly
appraised on commercial terms. Its main contribution is enhancement of competitiveness,
by reducing the cost of air transport and easing connectivity since Uganda is a landlocked
country.
Uganda Airlines will also support the harnessing of opportunities such as tourism and
agriculture (horticulture, floriculture, fish and our nascent oil and gas). Therefore, the
airline was revived primarily as infrastructure, as opposed to commercial business. We
126 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

revived it to reap from the economic multipliers and indirect dividends it will create.
Cognisant of this, the Government has also embarked on developing alternative airports
in addition to upgrading Entebbe International Airport.
4.5.1. PROGRESS
a. Upgrade of Entebbe International Airport. It is soon going to be a world-class airport.
So far 70.21% of the upgrading work is complete.
b. Development of Hoima International Airport. Construction of phase one of the airport

commenced and was ahead of schedule; 40% complete by March 2020. Phase
one is expected to be completed at the end of 2020. The rest of the works will be
completed in 2023. However, the works were halted due to the COVID–19 pandemic.
c. Uganda Airlines was revived and commenced flights. We procured four CRJ900
Bombardier aircraft. Two Airbus aircraft (A330) are expected to be delivered by
December 2020. We have since launched commercial operations, which started
in August 2019. Eight regional offices were established (Mogadishu, Juba, Nairobi,
Dar es Salaam, Bujumbura, Kilimanjaro, Mombasa and Zanzibar). Unfortunately, the
airline’s operations were suspended due to the COVID-19 lockdown. But even then, it
enabled the return of all Ugandans who were stranded abroad.
Operations resumed after the easing of the lockdown and the reopening of Entebbe
International Airport in October 2020.
d. We have upgraded Arua Airfield from an aerodrome to a category 4C airport. Phase

one included construction of a new runway, taxiways and apron; new cargo centre,
new terminal complex, control tower, fire station and administration block.
Construction of the apron and associated taxiways:
Phase one has been completed, phase two work is ongoing and 96% of it is complete.
Perimeter fencing of Arua Airfield — work is ongoing and 56% complete. Progress is
expected to be swift after resolving land compensation issues.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 127

The new wing of the Entebbe Airport
The new Baggage Conveyor at Entebbe Airport
128 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

e. Improved and upgraded aviation services offered by Uganda Civil Aviation Authority
(UCAA), as follows:
i. Increased the departure immigration counters from six to 11 and arrival immigration
counters from 14 to 20 booths to reduce long queues at Entebbe International
Airport.
ii. Installed a modern Terminal Operations Control Centre at the airport and a
training facility at the UCAA head office.
iii. Upgraded the Air Traffic Control Radar and Airspace Management System, giving
it an extended lifespan of 10 more years.
iv. Completed the Air Traffic Services Message Handling System at Entebbe
International Airport, Arua Airfield and five aerodromes (small airstrips): Kasese,
Kisoro, Mbarara, Soroti and Gulu.
vi. Commenced construction of the Security Search Park at the Entebbe International
Airport and works are ongoing (overall 80% work complete).
v. Re-designed Entebbe International Airport instrument flight procedures to meet

the new ICAO requirement.
4.5.2. WAY FORWARD

a. Complete the construction of Hoima International Airport in 2023: Construction of phase
I commenced and is 40% complete.
b. Two Uganda Airlines A330 airbus will be delivered: the first by the end of 2020 and another
in 2021.
c. Purchase cargo planes for Uganda Airlines as a way of supporting export of agricultural
produce.
d. Complete the development and upgrade of Arua Airfield into an airport of category 4C.
e. As we have done for Arua Airfield, we will continue to develop and upgrade Gulu and
Kasese airfields into category 4C airports.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 129

130 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Uganda Airlines A330 airbus will be delivered by the end of 2020
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 131

4.6. ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE

When NRM took power in 1986, inadequate transport infrastructure was one of Uganda’s
biggest problems. Over the years, we have improved it to increase prosperity among the
people of Uganda.
Historical experience provides proof that if you construct a road or railway through a cultivable
area, you automatically stimulate economic development. Most importantly, the past few
years have taught us that transport infrastructure and related services will be developed
sustainably only if we approach them in an integrated manner.
NRM, therefore, is committed to developing all modes of transport, including road, railway,
water and air to reduce the cost of both passenger and cargo transport.
Over the next five years, as a package of measures to reduce the cost of transport, we are
going to concentrate on five areas. First, reducing freight transportation costs from Mombasa
Port and other ports to Kampala and other parts of the country. Second, reduce average
travel time within Kampala City and the surrounding areas. Third, we are going to continue
with the effort of opening up all parts of Uganda and connect them to the paved national
road network. Fourth, using a science-led approach, we will reduce the unit cost of building
transport infrastructure. Lastly, maintaining transport infrastructure (particularly the tarmacking
of roads) to increase the average lifespan of roads from 15 to 20 years and more.
4.6.1. PROGRESS ON NATIONAL ROADS

Uganda has a total road network of about 159,366km comprising 20,854km (13%) national
roads; 38,603km (24%) district roads; 19,959km (13%) urban roads and 79,947km (50%)
community access roads.
The national roads link border posts, airports and ports to each other as well as to the
capital city. District roads link district headquarters to the national road network and sub-
county administrative centres. Urban roads are within the boundaries of urban areas, while
community access roads are those within villages that link communities and provide access
to administrative, social and economic services.
132 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

The road network of our country has tremendously expanded and improved. At independence
in 1962, Uganda had only 844km of tarmac roads. Although the post-independence Uganda
People’s Congress (UPC) government extended tarmac roads to new towns such as Mbarara-
Kabale, Mbarara-Fort Portal, and Kampala-Gulu-Lira, the road network had collapsed by the
time NRM took power in 1986. At the time, there were only about 1,000km of paved roads,
most of which were in poor condition.
By the end of 2019, NRM had tarmacked a total of 5,500km of national roads and rehabilitated
the old 1,000km. By the end of 2020, we shall have added another 500km, thus making a total
6,000km of tarmacked national roads. Our long-term target — enshrined in Uganda Vision
2040 — is to achieve an average of paved road density of 100km per 1,000sq.km by the year
2040.
The stock of the paved road network continues to increase, a result of the well thought out
decision to prioritise road construction. During the past term 2016-2021, we allocated over
Ush22,935 billion to infrastructure development — roads and bridges (8% more than the
planned allocation). Overall, the works and transport sector has received, on average, 17%
of the national budget during the last five years.
Although in the past we have focused more on expansion of the national paved road
network to cover the huge infrastructure gap, over the next five years we are going to
balance construction with maintenance of existing and newly paved roads. We are going
to operate the Uganda Road Fund (URF) as a “Second Generation Fund” (2G Road Fund) to
finance routine and periodic maintenance of our roads. The URF will get revenues from road
user charges, including fuel levy, licence fees and other road-related charges as listed under
21 of the URF Act. This will enable us reduce the replacement costs of roads in future. URF
will develop a comprehensive multi-year road rehabilitation and road maintenance plan to
guide resource allocation in line with best practice.
We are also going to support competent local contractors to actively participate in road
construction and maintenance, in line with the local content policy. The road construction/
maintenance equipment we bought from Japan is being used to maintain the existing roads
in good condition and to open up roads connecting new districts. The big national and
inter-district roads have already connected many of the sub-counties and town councils in
Uganda.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 133

COMPLETED ROADS
The following roads, as promised in the 2016-2021 manifesto, have been completed.
TABLE 9: COMPLETED ROADS BETWEEN 2016 AND 2021

DISTANCE
NO. ROAD (KM)
1. Atiak-Nimule 35.0
2. Ishaka-Kagamba 35.4
3. Ntungamo-Mirama Hills 37.0
4. Moroto-Nakapiripirit 114.0
5. Kampala-Entebbe Expressway/Munyonyo 51.0
6. Mpigi-Kanoni 65.0
7. Mukono-Kyetume-Katosi/Nyenga 74.0
8. Mbarara Bypass 14.5
9. Kazo-Ibanda-Kamwenge 75.0
10. Kamwenge-Fort Portal 65.0
11. Iganga-Kaliro 32.0
12. Soroti-Katakwi-Moroto 150.0
13. Lumino-Musita-Busia-Majanji 104.0
14. Kashenyi-Mitooma 11.0
15. Kitanda-Bigasa-Gomba-Sembabule 110.0
16. Acholi Bur-Kitgum-Musingo 86.4
17. Gulu-Acholi Bur 70.3
18. Nyakabande-Mutolere 5.0
19. Nyakabande-Muganzi 7.0
20. Rushere-Nshwerenkye 11.0
21. Vurra-Oraba 9.4
TOTAL 1,162.0
The total distance of the above completed new roads is 1,162km, bringing the total
kilometres of tarmacked roads to 5,500km, having been 1,000km in 1986.
ROADS THAT HAVE BEEN REHABILITATED

The following old roads, covering a total of 449.2km, have been rehabilitated or
reconstructed.
134 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

TABLE 10: ROADS THAT HAVE BEEN REHABILITATED

DISTANCE
NO. ROAD
(KM)
1. Kafu-Kiryandongo-Kamdini 43.0
2. Kyenjojo-Fort Portal 50.0
3. Nansana-Busunju 47.0
4. Mbale-Sironko-Kapchorwa and Mbale town roads 66.2
5. Katunguru-Kasese 40.0
6. Lira-Corner Kamdini 49.0
7. Mukono-Kayunga-Njeru 94.0
8. Katunguru-Hima-Fort Portal 60.0
TOTAL 449.2
ROADS THAT ARE BEING CONSTRUCTED
TABLE 11: NEW ROADS UNDER CONSTRUCTION

NO. ROAD DISTANCE
(KM)
1. Tirinyi-Pallisa-Kumi, Kumi-Mukongoro-Pallisa 111.0
2. Kigumba-Bulima 69.0
3. Bulima-Hoima-Kabwoya 66.0
4. Kyenjojo-Kabwoya 100.0
5. Mubende-Kakumiro-Kagadi 107.0
6. Kapchorwa-Suam 77.0
7. Rukungiri-Kihihi-Ishasha-Kanungu 79.0
8. Muyembe-Nakapiripirit 92.0
9. Kampala Northern By-Pass 18.0
10. Masaka-Bukakata 43.0
11. Mbale-Bubulo-Lwakhakha 45.0
12. Kitala-Gerenge 10.0
13. Busega-Mpigi Expressway 24.0
14. Masindi-Park Junction, Tangi Junction- Para-Buliisa 159.0
15. Hoima-Butiaba-Wanseko 111.0
16. Buhimba-Nalweyo-Bulamagi-Igayaza-Kakumiro 93.0
17. Masindi-Biiso, Hohwa-Nyairongo-Kyarusheesa-Butole & Kabale-Kiziranfumbi 106.0
18. Atiak-Adjumani-Umi 65.0
TOTAL 1,375.0
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 135

NEW ROADS UNDER PROCUREMENT
Construction of the following roads is at various stages of procurement. Funds have

already been committed.
TABLE 12: NEW ROADS UNDER PROCUREMENT

NO. ROAD DISTANCE (KM)
1. Seeta-Kyaliwajjala-Matugga-Wakiso-Buloba-Nsangi 32.0
2. Najanankumbi-Busabala 11.0
3. Kibuye-Busega 10.0
4. Luwero-Butalangu 29.6
5. Butalangu-Kapeeka-Kituma 60.0
6. Rwenkunye-Apac 91.0
7. Apac-Lira-Puranga 100.0
8. Lusalira-Nkonge-Lumegere-Sembabule 97.0
9. Karugutu-Ntoroko 50.3
10. Kabwoya-Buhuuka 43.0
11. Kabale-L Bunyonyi-Kabeho 15.1
12. Kisoro-Mgahinga National Park headquarters 14.0
13. Kisoro-Nkuringo-Rubugiri-Muko 72.0
14. Laropi-Moyo-Afoji 37.3
15. Koboko-Yumbe-Moyo 105.0
16. Namagumba-Budadiri-Nalugugu 33.0
17. Tororo-Busia 25.0
18. Katuna - Muko - Kamuganguzi 104.0
TOTAL 929.3
4.6.2. WAY FORWARD

a. Integrate infrastructure development system where road construction puts into
consideration run-off rain water harvesting and other utility ducts.
b. Continue with the construction of the ongoing road projects. Furthermore, those
under procurement will start as soon as procurement is completed. The above projects
(ongoing and those under procurement) will be completed around 2022.
c. Embark on the construction of new road projects in 2023 (Table 13 below).
d. Continue with the maintenance of existing roads.
136 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

TABLE 13: NEW ROAD PROJECTS TO BE STARTED

PROJECT NAME DISTANCE (KM)
1 Kisubi-Nakawuka-Natete/Nakawuka-Kasanje-Mpigi/Nakawuka–Mawugulu- 71.0
Nanziga-Maya/Kasanje-Buwaya
2 Luku-Kalangala-Mulabana 66.0
3 Misindye-Kabimbiri -Zirobwe-Wobulenzi-Kapeeka 138.0
4 Lugazi-Buikwe-Kiyindi 28.0
5 Kayunga-Busana-River Nile-Kamuli 34.0
6 Kayunga-Bbaale-Galiraya 89.0
7 Puranga-Acholi Bur 62.0
8 Pajule-Pader district headquarters 18.0
9 Kitgum-Orom-Karenga 116.0
10 Karenga-Bira (Kaabong-Sudan Border) 42.0
11 Atiak-Kitgum 108.0
12 Katine-Ochero 70.0
13 Dokolo-Ochero-Namasale 88.0
14 Kotido-Kaabong 64.0
15 Moroto-Kotido 100.0
16 Moroto-Lokitanyala 28.0
17 Kotido-Abim-Aloi-Lira 187.0
18 Manibe-Yumbe 77.0
19 Nambole-Namilyango-Seeta-Mukono (14km) 14.0
20 Kanyantorogo-Butogota-Bohoma 31.4
21 Nkenda-Bugoye-Ibanda/Nyankalingijjo 10.3
22 Mubuku-Maliba-Nyakalingijjo 15.3
23 Ishasha-Katunguru 87.0
24 Rwimi-Dura-Kamwenge-Kazo 140.0
25 Ntusi-Lyantonde-Rakai 105.0
26 Jinja-Mbulamuti-Kamuli 65.0
27 Kamuli-Bukungu 64.0
28 Soroti-Serere-Pingire-Mugarama 64.0
29 Kumi-Ngora-Brooks Corner-Serere-Kagwara 102.0
30 Bubulo-Bududa Circular Road 28.0
31 Mbale-Nkokonjeru 21.0
32 Bwizibwera-Nyakambu-Nsiika-Nyakashala-Nyakabirizi — with a spur to 92.2
Kabwohe and Kyambura
33 Kabwohe - Bugongi - Kitagata - Kabira - Rukungiri 67.0
34 Kanoni-Mityana 37.0
35 Myanzi-Kasanda-Byukwiya-Kiboga 65.0
36 Iganga-Bulopa/Luuka-Kamuli 57.2
37 Nabumali-Butaleja-Namutumba 90.0
38 Busolwe-Nagogera-Tororo 44.0
39 Kanungu-Rugyeyo-Nyakisenyi road 70.0
40 Fort Portal-Kijura-Kyarusozi-Katooke 83.8
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 137

41 Kashwa-Kashongi-Ruhumba road 33.0

42 Mayuge-Mbaale-Nakivumbi-Bugiri-Namayingo-Lugala 90.0
43 Namutumba-Bulange-Nabukalu-Bugiri-Muterere-Nankoma 60.0
TOTAL 2,988.2
Roads to be constructed when funds are available are attached in the Annex (Page 286).
4.6.3. PROGRESS
TABLE 14: PROGRESS ON BRIDGES

PROJECT NAME KM STATUS
Lot 1: Design and Build of 3 Strategic Bridges: Sironko Bridge On Mbale-
1 Sironko Road; Chololo On Chosan-Amudat Road; Kibimba On Kampala- 3 In Progress
Uganda/Kenya Border (Malaba) Road
Lot 3: Design and Build of 3 Strategic Bridges in Arua district; Alla (Anzuu),
2 3 In Progress
Gazi (Rhino Camp) And Aca (Rhino Camp)
Construction of Strategic Bridges on the National Road Network: Lot 2:
Design and Build of 2 Strategic Bridges-; Jure Bridge on Atiak-Adjumani-
3 2 In Progress
Moyo- Yumbe-Manibe Road & Amou Bridge on Laropi-Palorinya-Obongi
Road, in (Moyo DLG).
Under
4 Construction of Lugogo Swamp Crossing 1
Procurement
Design and Build of 66 Bridges (Phase 2) on the National Road Network- Lot
1: Design and Build of five Selected bridges in Kabarole district; Dunga, Procurement
5 5
Mahoma, Mpanga, Nabuswa (Nyabuswa) and Perepa bridges along Bukuku - Initiated
Rubona Road
Design and Build of 66 Bridges (Phase 2) on the National Road Network- Lot
Procurement
6 2: Design & Build of 6 Bridges: Nabukhaya, Nambola, Nametsimeri, Sahana, 6
Initiated
Khamitsaru and Rubongi
Lot 4- Design and Build of 6 Strategic Bridges in Western Uganda; Maziba
on Kigata-Kabunyonyi-Nyakigugwe Road, Kiruruma on Katojo-Kihihi Road, Procurement
7 6
Rwembyo and Kajwenge Bridges on Kinyamaseke-Kisinga-Kyarumba- Initiated
Kibirizi Road, and Kamirwa, Nyakambu on Kabwohe-Bwizibwera Road
Lot 5 - Design and Build of 4 Strategic Bridges in Eastern Uganda; Malaba 2, Procurement
8 4
Malaba 3, Okane and Halukada on Tororo - Busia Road Initiated
Lot 6 - Design and Build of 3 Strategic Bridges in West Nile Sub-Region;
Procurement
9 Kochi on Keri-Midigo-Kerwa Road, Osu on Arua-Biliafe-Otrevu Road and 3
Initiated
Odrua on Arua-Vurra-Custom-Paidha Goli – Road
10 Lion's Bridge 1 Design
11 Alito 1 Design
138 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

4.6.4. WAY FORWARD

The following bridges will be constructed:
TABLE 15: BRIDGES TO BE BUILT

NO. BRIDGE
1 Karuma Bridge & Access Roads
2 Laropi/Umi Bridge
3 New Pakwach Bridge and Access Roads
4 New Katunguru Bridge and Access Roads
5 Masindi Port Bridge and Access Roads
6 New Sezibwa Bridge
7 Semiliki bridge
8 Nakiwogo Bridge
The new Nile Bridge in Jinja was

commissioned in October 2018
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 139

4.6.5. PROGRESS ON KAMPALA CAPITAL CITY

AUTHORITY ROADS MANAGEMENT
The total road infrastructure network within the administrative boundaries of Kampala City
comprises 2,110km of which todate 616km is paved (29%) and 1,494km (71%) unpaved.
Since 2011, KCCA has reconstructed, upgraded to bitumen standard and maintained
a number of roads using funding from the Government of Uganda and development
partners like the World Bank.
A total of 98 roads measuring 137km have been reconstructed or upgraded to bitumen

standard. During the reconstruction and upgrading, emphasis was placed on having
segregated walkways on each road for pedestrians on all the roads to promote non-
motorised means of transport. The drainages on all the urban roads being constructed
are covered and under the walkways to enhance safety of pedestrians.
SOLVING THE PROBLEM OF TRAFFIC AND CONGESTION
In recent years, however, the increase in traffic volume on the account of rapid rise in
population and economic growth has resulted in huge traffic congestion on major roads
and junctions within and around Kampala City.
At peak hours (every morning from 6:30am to 10:00am, and in the evening from 4:30pm
to 9:00pm) all roads leading to and from Kampala City have traffic jam. Motor vehicles,
taxis, motorcycles (bodabodas) and pedestrians are jostling for mobility space.
Recent estimates show that a staggering 24,000 person-hours are lost daily by people
trapped in traffic jam. The average travel time in Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area
(GKMA) is four minutes/km compared to 2.5 minutes/km in other cities and one minute/
km on district and national roads. This is partly due to the poor infrastructure in Kampala
which has raised the cost of doing business in the city. It is also affecting the well-being of
Kampala residents, hence the attractiveness of the city to investors.
There is need to overhaul most of the roads in the city since they are beyond repair and
maintenance. We are going to step up road construction around and across the city, by
putting emphasis on the paving of access roads built off the main roads to encourage
the development of manufacturing clusters.
140 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

NRM will ensure that planners and budget allocators adhere to allocative efficiency so
that vehicle concentration informs funding since roads tend to be more burdened where
the number of vehicles is high.
OUR STRATEGY TO DEAL WITH TRAFFIC AND CONGESTION
KCCA has undertaken feasibility studies for a light rail system (trams), cable cars, flyovers,
development of pedestrian, bike and bus lanes and a rapid bus transit system as potential
solutions to congestion and poor connectivity.
NRM is going to step up the implementation of these innovations and studies. We have
started implementing the GKMA Development Strategy (2018). Towards this, in FY2020/21,
we have allocated Ush44.4 billion to procure buses to ease GKMA transport. We shall
continue budgeting for public buses in Kampala until when we have enough fleet.
We are also going to increase the budget for roads and other infrastructure projects
within the GKMA to improve connectivity and overall urban development.
We need to accommodate the increasing number of vehicles plying the roads annually,
particularly to segregate traffic, enhance safety and reduce journey times. The urban
population is increasing at 5.43% per year and is expected to grow from six million people
in 2013 to over 20 million people in 2040.
In addition, we are going to adopt a holistic road development model that integrates
components such as marketplaces for local produce, schools, health facilities and
streetlights. There must be linkages between the road and other economic activities fully
catered for in the road design.
The ongoing road works
The following roads are under construction:
a. Lot 1: Upgrading to paved of 5.52km, reconstruction and creating dual-carriage

roads measuring 4.25km, including signalisation of 10 junctions in Nakawa and Central
divisions.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 141

b. Lot 2: Upgrading to paved standard of Kabuusu–Bunamwaya-Lweza Road (8.06km)
c. Lot 3: Recycling and overlay of Lukuli Road (7.71km), including signalisation of Lukuli/
Namasoole/Kayembe junction.
The Government acquired new robust road equipment (motor graders, compactors,
excavators, wheel loaders, dumpers and a 10,000 litre water bowser), some of which has
been procured by KCCA and the majority provided by Ministry of Works and Transport
(MoWT) using a loan from Japan. The equipment replaced the aging problematic fleet
and will be used to carry out more road works in-house starting FY2021/22.
4.6.6. WAY FORWARD

The following will be expanded to four-lane roads so as to decongest the city.
TABLE 16: ROADS FOR CAPACITY IMPROVEMENT

NO. PROJECT NAME DISTANCE (KM)
1 Zana-Kajjansi 5
2 Kampala-Mukono 14
3 Bwaise-Kawempe-Matugga 13
TOTAL 32
REHABILITATION OF KAMPALA CITY ROADS
Through KCCA, rehabilitate existing paved roads (90km) and construct four steel bridges,
three for pedestrians and one key bridge for vehicles has been prepared with support
from DFID, UK. Funding to an estimate of US$100 million for the implementation phase
is expected from UK Export Finance (85%) and from Government of Uganda (15% of
KCCA’s annual budget). The roads and bridges in this project are listed in Table 17.
142 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

TABLE 17: ROADS FOR UPGRADE AND/OR REHABILITATION

LENGTH SCOPE
ROAD NAME DIVISION FROM TO
(KM) OF WORK
1 Balintuma Road 1.60 Rehabilitate Lubaga Sentema Road Hoima Road
2 Bandali Rise 0.70 Rehabilitate Nakawa Luthuli Avenue Luthuli Rise
3 Binayomba Road 0.45 Upgrade Nakawa Namuwongo Road Luthuli Avenue
4 Bombo Road 1 1.20 Rehabilitate Central Wandegeya Junction Kyagwe Road
Kubbiri
5 Bombo Road 2 1.10 Rehabilitate Kawempe Wandegeya Junction
Roundabout
6 Bombo Road 3 1.20 Rehabilitate Kawempe Kubbiri Roundabout Northern Bypass
7 Bukoto Street 1.00 Rehabilitate Central Sturrock Road Lugogo Bypass
Commercial
8 Chorley Crescent 1.70 Rehabilitate Nakawa Portbell Road
Road
9 Clement Hill Road 0.50 Rehabilitate Central Shimoni Road Nile Avenue
10 Commercial Road 1.40 Rehabilitate Nakawa Stretcher Road Ntinda Road
Factory Close
11 3.95 Upgrade Nakawa Stretcher Road Kyambogo Road
Roads
12 Faraday Road 0.30 Upgrade Nakawa Princess Anne Drive Luthuli Rise
Entebbe Road
13 Gabunga Road 1 2.60 Upgrade Lubaga Suuna Road 1
(Namasuba)
14 George Street 0.70 Rehabilitate Central Kyagwe Road Square 1
15 Ginnery Road 0.10 Rehabilitate Central Rashid Khamis Road Gaddafi Road
Haji Musa Kasule Mulago
16 0.50 Rehabilitate Central Wandegeya Junction
Road Roundabout
17 Jinja Road 0.75 Rehabilitate Central King George VI Way Kitgum Junction
18 Kagera Road 0.30 Rehabilitate Central Shimoni Road Sezibwa Road
19 Kalema Road 2.00 Upgrade Lubaga Albert Cook Road Sembera Road
Prince Charles
20 Kanjokya Street 0.80 Rehabilitate Nakawa Bukoto Street
Drive
21 Kanyike Road 0.30 Upgrade Makindye Mbogo/Kibuli Road Zzimwe Road
Wandegeya
22 Kampala Road 3.10 Rehabilitate Central King George VI Way
Junction
23 Katalima Road 1.80 Rehabilitate Nakawa Jinja Road Ntinda 2 Road
24 Katonga Road 0.20 Rehabilitate Central Shimoni Road Sezibwa Road
Norther Bypass
25 Kawaala Road 1.50 Rehabilitate Lubaga Hoima Road
Bridge
26 Kinawataka Road 1.80 Rehabilitate Nakawa Robert Mugabe Road Kireka Road
27 Kira Road 1 2.50 Rehabilitate Central Mulago Roundabout Kira Road Police
Butabika
28 Kirombe Road 1.50 Rehabilitate Nakawa Chorley Crescent
Hospital
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 143

LENGTH SCOPE OF
(KM) WORK
29 Kizanyiro Road 1.30 Upgrade Kawempe Gayaza Road Waligo Road
30 Kome Crescent 0.60 Upgrade Nakawa Kabalega Crescent Portbell Road
Lower Kololo John Babiiha
31 1.10 Rehabilitate Central Wampewo Avenue
Terrace Avenue
Kabaka Anjagala Kabaka Anjagala
32 Lubiri Ring Road 3.50 Rehabilitate Lubaga
Road Road
33 Lugogo Bypass 2.40 Rehabilitate Central Kira Road Police Jinja Road
34 Luthuli Avenue 1.50 Rehabilitate Nakawa Spring Road Bazarabusa Road
35 Luthuli Rise 0.80 Rehabilitate Nakawa Spring Road Bazarabusa Road
John Babiiha
36 Mabua Road 0.60 Rehabilitate Central Upper Kololo Terrace
Avenue
37 Mackinnon Road 0.70 Rehabilitate Central Kintu Road Kafu Road
38 Main Access Road 0.20 Rehabilitate Makindye Namuwongo Road Seventh Street
39 Makamba Road 2.00 Rehabilitate Lubaga Wakaliga Road Mugema Road
Makerere Primary Sir Apollo Kaggwa
40 0.80 Upgrade Kawempe Bombo Road
School Road Road
41 Mapeera Road 1.60 Upgrade Lubaga Nabulagala Road Makamba Road
42 Martin Road 0.70 Rehabilitate Central Namirembe Road Gaddafi Road
Matia Mulumba
43 0.50 Rehabilitate Central Namirembe Road Gaddafi Road
Road
44 Mawanda Road 1.90 Rehabilitate Kawempe Gayaza Road Tufnell Drive
Mpererwe Kiti
45 9.90 Upgrade Kawempe Mpererwe Kiti
Road
Musajja Alumbwa
46 1.00 Rehabilitate Lubaga Lubaga Road Lubiri Ring Road
Road
Mutungo Ring Mutungo
47 1.80 Rehabilitate Nakawa Church Road
Road Tankhill Road
48 Mwanga II Road 1.10 Rehabilitate Central Namirembe Road Lubiri Ring Road
49 Namuwongo Road 2.00 Rehabilitate Makindye Eight Street Bukasa Road
50 Nasser Road 0.70 Rehabilitate Central Entebbe Road Station Approach
Sir Apollo
51 Nsalo Road 2 0.20 Rehabilitate Lubaga Hoima Road
Kaggwa Road
Old Kampala
52 0.50 Rehabilitate Central Namirembe Road Namirembe Road
Road
53 Old Kira Road 1.10 Rehabilitate Central Kamwokya Market Kira Road
Old Kira Road
54 2.20 Rehabilitate Nakawa Kira Road Kira Road
(Kabira to Ntinda)
Prince Badru
55 Press House Road 0.40 Rehabilitate Makindye Mukwano Road
Kakungulu Road
144 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

LENGTH SCOPE OF
(KM) WORK
Prince Charles
56 2.60 Rehabilitate Central Upper Kololo Terrace Lugogo Bypass
Drive
Rashid Khamis
57 0.60 Rehabilitate Central Gaddafi Road Nsalo Road
Road 1
58 Roscoe Road 0.40 Rehabilitate Central Impala Avenue Lugogo Bypass
59 Rubaga Road 2.20 Rehabilitate Lubaga Namirembe Road Stensera Road
Crested Towers
60 Said Barre Avenue 0.30 Rehabilitate Central Jinja Road
Roundabout
Sezibwa Road
61 Sezibwa Road 0.80 Rehabilitate Central Kintu Road
Roundabout
62 Shimoni Road 0.40 Rehabilitate Central Kintu Road Yusuf Lule Road
Sir Apollo
63 2.20 Rehabilitate Kawempe Makerere Hill Road Northern Bypass
Kaggwa Road 1
St. Peter's
64 1.10 Upgrade Kawempe Gayaza Road Waligo Road
Kanyanya Road
Sheraton
65 Ternan Avenue 0.50 Rehabilitate Central Sezibwa Road
Roundabout
Upper Naguru
66 0.90 Rehabilitate Nakawa Naguru East Road Kira Road
East Road
Wampewo Upper Kololo
67 Wampewo Avenue 0.90 Rehabilitate Central
Roundabout Terrace
Windsor Loop John Babiiha
68 0.20 Rehabilitate Central Kira Road
Road Avenue
Mulago
69 Yusuf Lule Road 2.50 Rehabilitate Central Jinja Road
Roundabout
70 Zzimwe Road 0.70 Upgrade Makindye Tank Hill Junction Kanyike Road
70 ROADS IN TOTAL 92.95KM IN TOTAL
KAMPALA CITY ANNUITY ROADS AND BRIDGES PROJECT

TABLE 18: KAMPALA CITY ANNUITY ROADS AND BRIDGES PROJECT (KCARBP)
NUMBER NUMBER OF OVERALL BRIDGE TYPE ROADWAY
JUNCTION
OF SPANS BRIDGES LENGTH (M)
1 Rosebury 12 1 2X560 Atlas Flyover 2X7.35m
2 UMI 2 1 39 Atlas Pedestrian 2.5m walkway
3 Kawempe 1 1 15 Atlas Pedestrian 2.5m walkway
Hospital
4 Queensway 2 1 32 Atlas Pedestrian 2.5m walkway
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 145

WAKISO ROADS
The following roads in Wakiso will be tarmacked.
TABLE 19: WAKISO ROADS

NO ROADS DISTANCE KM
1 Kiwatule – Najjeera – Kira – Bulindo - Nakwero 8.0
2 Sonde-Buwava-Kiwologoma in Kira Municipality 6.0
3 Jokas-UCC-Namumila in Kira Municipality 4.5
4 Bukasa Port Terminal in Kira Municipality
5 Namasuba-Kikajjo-Masajja-Busabala in Makindye Sebagabo 5.0
6 Maganjo-Kisimula-Katooke in Nansana and Nabweru Division 4.6
7 Kagoma-Nabuuma in Nansana & Nabweru 6.7
8 Kajjansi – Lutembe - Namulanda 8.7
9 Namugongo - Nsasa - Bulindo 5.2
EXPRESSWAYS
To ease transport flow in GKMA, the Government has embarked on developing expressways.
Towards this, Kampala-Entebbe Expressway was completed in 2018 and the Kampala-Northern
Bypass capacity improvement is expected to be completed in 2021. Over the next five years the
following expressways will be constructed.
TABLE 20: EXPRESSWAYS PLANNED

NO EXPRESSWAY STATUS
1 Busega-Mpigi Work commenced in 2019
2 Kampala Flyover Project Construction work ongoing
3 Kibuye-Busega Construction work ongoing
4 Kampala-Jinja Under procurement
5 Kampala Southern Bypass Works to commence in 2022
6 Kampala-Bombo Design completed
7 Nakasero-Northern Bypass Design completed
8 Kampala Outer Beltway/Ring Road Design completed
9 Kampala-Busunju-Hoima Design ongoing
146 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Artistic impression of a
section of Jinja-Kampala
Highway at Njeru
Entebbe Expressway. To ease transport, NRM has embarked on developing expressways
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 147

Aerial view of Kampala city in 1995
Kampala city view today from Kololo Airstrip
148 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

A section of Kampala city in 2002
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 149

4.6.7. MARKETS, DRAINAGE, STREETLIGHTING

AND OTHER INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
4.6.8. PROGRESS
Transport and Traffic Management
Several existing signal junctions have been reconfigured and new ones signalised since
2011. Three junctions: Nateete, Nakawa and Wandegeya were reconfigured using funds
from the Uganda Road Fund. Four junctions: Jinja Road – Lugogo Bypass, – Upper Kololo,
Lugogo Bypass – Naguru Road and Upper Kololo – Wampewo have recently been
signalised with funding from the Government of Japan through Japan International Co-
operation Agency (JICA).
Junctions on Makerere Hill, Yusuf Lule Road (Fairway Hotel), Kira Road and Bwaise-
Mambule on Bombo Road have been signalised using World Bank funding. Works on the
signalisation of three more junctions on Hoima Road (Bakuli-Nakulabye ) have just been
completed.
The above sum up to 18 signalised junctions that have been completed and are
functioning.
Drainage Improvement Projects in Kampala City
Ongoing projects
a. Update and construction of selected community drainage priorities in Kampala

Capital City: Lubaga and Central divisions: Lot-4: [Kitamanyangamba and
Nabulagala drainage channels (1,568m)] is nearing completion.
b. Design update and construction of selected community drainage priorities in

Kampala Capital City: Nakawa division: Lot -5: [Savannah Commodities-Bugolobi-
UBC Link (1,541m)] is also nearing completion.
c. Contract for construction and completion of selected drainage systems in Kampala
150 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Capital City [(A) St. Denis (610m), Kabaluka (202m) and Nakinyuguzi (498m) in
Makindye division; and (B) Nabunya (386m), Kimera (210m), and Kabawo (200m).
Sebanja (185m) in Lubaga division].
Completed projects
Construction of 17 channels totaling 6.975km in Lubuga I (350m), Lubuga II (620m),

Kanakulya (434m), Mugerwa (417m), Ganafa (327m), St. Benedict & Kabungu Close
(469m), Kibuye-Police-Hollywood (450m) in Makindye division, Nte Yaffa (269m), Chwa
II ‘Nakulabye’ (235m), Chwa II ‘Namungoona’ (299m), Kiwunya roadside RHS and LHS
(790m), Kiwunya-Nasma (300m) in Lubaga division , Kawempe-Ttula I (882m), Kawempe-
Ttula II (509m), Kaddugala (409m) in Kawempe division and Kanywankoko Phase I -215m
(ongoing) in Nakawa division.
Under design and construction of selected drainage
Eight channels totalling 3.571km are being constructed as follows:

l St. Denis (900m)
l Nalweyiso (204m)
l Kabaluka (202m)
l Nakinyuguzi (818m) in Makindye division
l Nabunya (482m)
l Kimera (330m)
l Kabaawo (315m)
l Ssebanja (285m) in Lubaga division.
Construction of seven channels totalling 2.610km has been done. These are; Yelemia-
Kazo Angola (234m), Lutunda (560m), Ssekenge (525m), Mathel (200m), Bajjabaseka
drain & crossing (470m), Gabunga-Kazo Angola (440m) and Nsamba-Kazo Angola
(181m); all located in Kawempe division and Kawooya Phase I (216m), which has
safeguarded homes from collapsing and reduced flooding incidences while filled-up
deep gorges have reduced breeding grounds for waterborne diseases and death traps
for pedestrians.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 151

In addition, 4.226km of community drainages located in Nakawa were designed and

the tender documents completed. Construction has started. Construction of Nabisalu
channel (0.440km) and Scout Lane (0.577km) in Makindye division totalling to 0.997km
was completed, which has improved on the cleanliness of the channel and reduced
flooding.
Completed construction of Kakajjo channel (0.293km) in Central division and Kasokoso

(0.299km) in Nakawa division totalling to 0.592km, which has improved on the cleanliness
of the channel. It has also reduced flooding incidences and averted safety risks from the
deep gorges that formed because of erosion at the time when the channels were earth.
A total of 0.3km network of sewer line (315mm OD steel ductile sewer pipes) at a depth
of 5-7 metres was laid with provision of ducts and manhole chambers along Kafumbe
Mukasa road in Kisenyi, including the road reinstatement works on the surface.
STREETLIGHTING IN KAMPALA CITY

Installed 442 low-energy consumption electric lights to improve the lighting on the
pedestrian walkways and roads as an addition to the existing 1,742 solar streetlights. This
brings the total number of both solar and hydroelectric-powered streetlights to 5,383.
Phase two of the Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID)

project started in April 2019 to enhance the institutional performance of local governments
to improve urban service delivery. Total funding is US$360 million of which US$335 million
is credit and US$25 million a grant.
4.6.9. PROGRESS ON REGIONAL CITIES AND MUNICIPAL ROADS

In a bid to improve the road network in the newly created cities and municipalities,
the Government developed USMID programme costing US$150 million. The programme’s
objective is to enhance the institutional performance of the 14 cities/municipalities to
improve urban service delivery.
The municipalities that benefited under the USMID programme and have since been
elevated to city status include Arua, Fort Portal, Gulu, Jinja, Masaka, Mbarara, Mbale,
Hoima, Lira and Soroti. Other municipalities that benefited include Entebbe, Kabale,
Moroto and Tororo. The programme became effective on 4th September 2013 and ended
on 31st December 2018.
152 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

TABLE 21: CITY/MUNICIPALITY ROADS

NO. MUNICIPALITY PROJECT NAME
Rehabilitation of Enyau Road and Idi Amin Road: Total 1.68km
Reconstruction of Lemerijoa Road: Total 0.875km
1 Arua
Construction of Arua Taxi Park
Rehabilitation of School Road and Adroa Road: Total 2.28km.
Church Road, Nyondo Road, Basude Rise, Fulu Road: Total: 2.193km:
Rehabilitation of Gabunga Road, Lutwama Road, Muwawula Road,
2 Entebbe
Serumaga Road: Total: 1.0km:
Construction of Kitoro Taxi Park and Lockups
Rehabilitation of Nyakana Road, Kagote Road: Total 0.613km.
Construction of Mugunu Lorry Park
3 Fort Portal
Rehabilitation of Rukiidi III Street(0.225km), Kaboyo Road (0.257km), Solar
Streetlighting
Rehabilitation and upgrading of Ring Road, Labour Line Road, Acholi Lane
Road, Alokolum Road and Cemetery Road: Total 3.637km.
Rehabilitation and upgrading of Kabalega Road, Adonga Road, Crane
Avenue, Philip Turner Road, Odur Min Odyek Road, Commercial Road,
School Road, Salvatore Olwochi Road, Oponya Walter Road and Muroni
Road (10 No.) : Total 4.046km.
4 Gulu
Rehabilitation of Sir Samuel Baker Road (1.28km), Laroo Road (1.96km),
Tank Road (0.34km), Brother Reuben Road (0.64km), Hussein Michel Road
(0.54km), Dr Onekalit Road (0.27km), Lumumba Road (0.26km), Nyerere
Road (0.88km), Odida Road (0.25km), Timothy Okwera (0.42km), Lasto
Okech (0.50km), Golf Course Road (0.45km), Peter Paul Opok (0.86km):
Total 8.86km.
Rehabilitation of Rukurato Road, Main Street, Old Tooro Road, Coronation
Road, Persy Road, Government Road, Kabalega Road: Total 2.732km.
5 Hoima Rehabilitation of Wright Road (0.37km), Bujumbura Road (0.264km),
Kwebiha Road (0.286km), Bunyoro – kitara Road (0.554km), Republic Road
(0.286km), Total: 1.76km. Beautification of Boma Ground
Rehabilitation of Nalufenya-Clive Road West: Total 2.22km.
6 Jinja Rehabilitation of Main Street (1.55km), Eng. Zikusoka Road (0.8km) Total
2.35km.
Rehabilitation of Aduku Road, Oyite Ojok Road, Imat Maria Road, Maruzi
Road, Awange Mola Road, Ambobhai Road: Total 2.285km.
7 Lira Rehabilitation of Oyam Road, Rwot Aler Road, Aroma Lane: Total 0.990km.
Rehabilitation of Kwania Road (1.005km), Soroti Road (0.533km), Obote
Road (1.389km) Total: 2.927km. Beautification of the Coronation Park
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 153

Rehabilitation of Yellow knife Road and Kabula Street Drainage: Total

1.559km.
8 Masaka Rehabilitation of Budu Str (645m dual); Edward Avenue (630m dual);
Jathabai str (320m) and Sese street drainage (275m) (4 No.): Total 1. 870km.
Rehabilitation of Alex Sebowa (0.98km), Katwe Road (1.1km): Total 2.08km.
Rehabilitation of Republic Street, Pallisa Road, Mugisu Hill, Nabuyonga
Rise: Total 3.142km.
9 Mbale
Rehabilitation of Naboa Road (0.66km), Cathedral Avenue (0.835km): Total
1.495km.
Rehabilitation of Akiki-Nyabongo Road, McAllister Road, Constantino Lobo
Road and Buremba Road. Total 3.43km.
10 Mbarara
Rehabilitation of Bukuncu Road (0.43km), Bishop Willis Street (0.628km),
Mbaguta Road (0.71km): Total 1.768km.
Construction of Moroto Municipal Council bus terminal and parking yard.
11 Moroto
Phase 1 completed, phase 2 ongoing.
Rehabilitation of Cemetery Road, Central Avenue, Alanyu Road, Liverpool
Road, Serere Road: Total 2.862km.
12 Soroti
Rehabilitation of Edyegu road (0.9km), Haridas Road(0.842km), School Road
(0.862km): Total 2.604km.
Rehabilitation of Kashmir Road, Tagore West, Bazzar Street, Obuya Lane,
Park Lane and Tagore East: Total 1.503km.
13 Tororo
Rehabilitation of Oguti B Road (0.792km), Market Street (0.417km), Mvule
Road (0.164km): Total 1.373km. Reconstruction of Taxi Park.
Rehabilitation of Nkunda Rd, Keita Rd, Nyerere Rd, Nyerere Av., Kigongi
14 Kabale
Rd. Total 2.439km.
4.6.10. WAY FORWARD

We are going to continue improving roads and infrastructure in cities and municipalities of:
Arua, Gulu, Lira, Soroti, Moroto, Mbale, Tororo, Jinja, Entebbe, Masaka, Mbarara, Kabale,
Fort Portal and Hoima. We are also working on roads in the following new municipalities:
Kitgum, Kasese, Kamuli, Mubende, Ntungamo, Busia, Apac and Lugazi.
In addition, NRM is going to improve roads in local governments hosting refugees, namely:
Adjumani, Moyo, Yumbe, Arua, Isingiro and Kiryandongo.
154 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

These infrastructure improvements will include:
a. Urban roads and associated links.
b. Urban transportation terminals, for instance bus, lorry parks and associated market
stalls for vendors.
c. Urban solid and liquid waste management systems.
d. Drainage and storm water management systems.
e. Urban local economic infrastructure. For example markets, slaughter houses, servicing
land for industrial and commercial uses, cottage industries and tourism sites.
f. Urban beautification such as leisure/public parks, playgrounds, urban greening and

landscaping.
g. Infrastructure in local governments hosting refugees including small bridges, culverts,

roads in order to address bottlenecks in road use such as swampy areas, infrastructure
promoting sports, art and culture.
4.6.11. PROGRESS ON DISTRICT, URBAN AND

COMMUNITY ACCESS ROADS (DUCAR)
The District, Urban and Community Access Roads (DUCAR) constitute over 87% of the
total road network in Uganda. In the past 5 years, the Government has placed special
emphasis on the rehabilitation and maintenance of district, urban and community
access roads.
The 1,151 pieces of road construction equipment bought from Japan are being used
to maintain the existing roads and opening up those connecting new districts. The
equipment includes motor graders, wheel loaders, excavators, bulldozers, wheeled
backhoe loaders, vibro rollers, pneumatic rollers, pedestrian rollers, low-bed tractors,
water bowsers, self-loading trucks, mobile workshops and bitumen distributors. Each
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 155

district was given a road unit consisting of a motor grader, wheel loader, two dump trucks
and a water bowser.
As a result, 5,000km of district roads, 232km of urban roads and 8,000km of community
access roads were rehabilitated. The Government has further spent Ush930 billion
on maintenance of the DUCAR network in the past five years. This has resulted in the
improvement of the road network.
NRM has a plan of improving 1,525km of community access roads per year to foster
Local Economic Development (LED). We are also going to increase budget allocations
for local governments to invest more in the maintenance of DUCARs.
4.6.12. WAY FORWARD

Over the next five years, NRM is going to rehabilitate 5,000km of district roads, 340km of
urban roads and 8,000km of community access roads. We are also going to maintain the
DUCAR network to ensure that they are kept in a fair-to-good condition. This will see the
percentage of the DUCAR network in fair-to-good condition increase from 60% in 2021 to
80% in 2026. This will involve the following:
a. Investing in innovative technologies (such as “pro-base” sealing technology) for road

construction and maintenance and one of such technologies is the Low Cost Sealing
Technology. This involves tarmacking of roads using locally available materials and
the use of small local contractors. The targets for this technology include swampy
areas, steep slopes, poor foundation soils and rock outcrops. Using this technology,
we will tarmack 250km of low-volume roads countrywide to remove bottlenecks on
the DUCAR network.
b. NRM is going to further identify 120 critical road crossings and construct steel bridges
for improvement of rural accessibility on the DUCAR network.
c. The Government is going to construct and rehabilitate the following bridges and
swamp crossings on the DUCAR network:
156 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

TABLE 22: BRIDGES AND SWAMP CROSSINGS ON THE DUCAR NETWORK
TO BE CONSTRUCTED/REHABILITATED
S/N BRIDGE/SWAMP S/N BRIDGE/SWAMP DISTRICT
DISTRICT
CROSSING CROSSING
1 Aleles Pallisa/Ngora 28 Nsango Bugiri
2 Kyabahanga Rukungiri 29 Tanda Bugiri
3 Burambira Rukungiri 30 Humira Ntoroko
4 Karujumba Kasese 31 Amodo Dokolo
5 Kyabayenze Kasese 32 Saaka Kaliro
6 Bugibuni Bundasa Sironko 33 Ssezibwa Kayunga
7 Komorotot Bukedea 34 Ongino- Tisai Kumi
8 Airogo Bukedea 35 Adelei Kumi
9 Aakol Bukedea 36 Nakadidir - Lukolwe Mukono
10 Ayumo Alebtong 37 Rwamaabale Kyankwanzi
11 Bukwali Kabarole 38 Mburabuzo Kyankwanzi
12 Kanyeyite Mbarara 39 Kitooke Kyankwanzi
13 Katete Mbarara 40 Kikasa Lyantonde
14 Kibira Nebbi 41 Mutti- Gwa Kirevu Bukoman-
15 Nyahuka-Mirambi Bundibugyo simbi
16 Semliki Bundibugyo 42 Alipa Kaberamaido
17 Achuna Soroti 43 Abalang Kaberamaido
18 Kanyamateke Kisoro and Dokolo
19 Adyeri Nwoya 44 Getom Katakwi and
20 Kwapa Tororo Amuria
21 Kagera Tororo 45 Kafu Masindi
22 Funguwe- Muwafu Tororo 46 Rego Dokolo
23 KodoKolene Budaka 47 Bulagaye-Buhopa Namayingo
24 Bubwaya Manafwa 48 Kyoonyo Buhweju
25 Tongoi Manafwa 49 Alito, Agong and Achinga Kapelebyong
50 Nakibungulya Kamuli
26 Bukwaya –Mangasa Manafwa
51 Rushango Kazo
27 Bunyitsa Bulambuli
d. We shall procure additional road construction equipment for the benefit of 13 districts
which were created between 2018 and 2019. The districts include Nabilatuk, Bugweri,
Kassanda, Kwania, Kapelebyong, Kikuube, Obongi, Kazo, Rwampara, Kitagwenda, Madi-
Okollo, Karenga and Lusot. Each district will get a road unit consisting of a motor grader,
wheel loader, two dump trucks and a water bowser by 2022.
e. For all districts where we procured equipment, we are going to provide additional
resources for fuel to operate the equipment to murram and compact the roads.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 157

f. We are going to refurbish 645 units of serviceable equipment imported from China in
2012 and redistribute it among municipal councils and new cities by 2022.
g. Further, we are going to procure equipment for tarmacking roads for allocation to
five big municipal councils.
4.6.13. DEVELOPMENT OF MARKETS
NRM is committed to improving structures and working conditions in markets. Under

this policy, we redeveloped the following markets: Gulu, Jinja, Mbale, Wandegeya
(Kampala), Hoima, Nyendo (Masaka) and Mpanga (Fort Portal). Redevelopment of the
following markets is ongoing: Arua, Kitgum, Soroti, Moroto, Busia, Tororo, Lugazi, Kitooro
(Entebbe), Masaka, Mbarara, Kabale and Kasese. When completed, priority will be given
to vendors who had stalls in the old markets.
In Kampala, Kasubi Market was completed and commissioned. Busega and Kitintale
markets will be ready by December 2020.
In regard to border markets, NRM adopted a Border Market Programme (later renamed
the Border Export Zone Programme) to position Uganda’s exports in the region, especially
in the COVID-19 era. This will enable Uganda to maximise the benefits of regional
integration, such as her membership in the COMESA FTA, the EAC Customs Union,
Tripartite FTA and the African Continental FTA. For this to happen, there will be need,
among others, to: increase and improve trade infrastructure and capacity building of
the cross-border traders, and improve compliance with standards and marketing quality
of products through the use of improved and organised infrastructure. The storage and
warehousing infrastructure established in the BEZs will facilitate and ease movement of
goods across the borders.
Towards this, NRM has developed master plans, architectural designs, and other project
readiness documents for Katuna, Lwakhakha, Busia, Oraba and Kikagate border areas.
In August 2020 construction begun for Katuna, Busia, Lwakhakha and Oraba borders.
Over the next five years, we are going to develop the following border markets: Katuna,
158 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Lwakhakha, Busia, Oraba, Kikagate, Mpondwe (Kasese district), Bunagana (Kisoro

district) and Nyanuka/Busonga Ramya (Bundibugyo district).
Over the next five years, NRM will build markets in the municipalities that don’t have
modern markets.
4.6.14. URBAN HOUSING

One of NRM’s successes is seen in the high urbanisation growth rate currently at 5.8%
annually, compared to the global average of 1.8%. As such, the number of urban areas
in Uganda has expanded beyond their original spatial plans. Consequently, affordable
and planned housing is lagging behind. About 60% of the population in urban areas
reside in unplanned and informal settlements and slums. These informal settlements are
characterised by substandard housing, overcrowding and limited access to essential public
services such as clean and safe water, sanitation, healthcare and education, among
others. These informal settlements are attributable to low levels of household incomes,
complicated land tenure systems, high cost of building materials and technology and
other related basic infrastructure issues.
NRM is committed to solving these housing challenges. Therefore, to address the bottlenecks
to affordable decent housing in Uganda, NRM is going to:
a. Enhance wealth and job creation programs to sustainably raise citizens’ income levels
to enable them to afford decent housing.
b. Provide essential public services, including clean water, sanitation, healthcare and
education to informal settlements in Kampala’s slum areas. These services will also be
provided to informal settlements in other cities and municipalities.
c. Reduce the cost of building materials by using our minerals such as limestone and iron
ore to develop integrated industries for building materials (cement and steel products).
d. Recapitalise National Housing and Construction Corporation to build low-cost housing
for public servants and other deserving citizens.
e. Recapitalise Housing Finance Bank to enable it to expand and provide affordable
mortgage finance.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 159

f. Build houses for health workers and teachers.

g. For all industrial parks, there is a plan to provide and build affordable housing for workers
and likely urbanisation.
4.7. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

NRM inherited a country where telephones were for the rich and services unreliable,
yet they existed elsewhere in world. There was only one inefficient telephone company
owned by the Government. In 2006, NRM recognised and pledged to prioritise and
promote the use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) as a tool and
enabler of socio-economic transformation and development.
ICT is essential in improving national productivity because it has potential to make

Government and business enterprises more efficient, effective and globally competitive.
Ugandans are now spoilt for choice on which telephone or internet provider to choose.
There are four telephone service providers and more than six internet providers.
Almost all Ugandan households have a mobile phone. Subscriptions have increased from
20.5 million in 2015 to 23.2 million in 2017 resulting in a teledensity of 66.9%. The number of
internet users also increased from 6.2 million in 2015 to 9.8 million in 2017. This translated
into an internet penetration rate of 25%.
The importance of ICT has been amplified under COVID-19 driven lockdowns. During
the period ICT was employed to deliver education, health, trade in market places and
financial services.
NRM will use ICT for e-education, e-security, e-governance, e-health, e-extension to
deliver Government services better. Ugandan youth will be supported to innovate to
improve ICT services across the country.
160 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

4.7.1. PROGRESS
a. The National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) has been extended to 483 Government
sites and target user groups. Out of these 420 are using services over the NBI; the
services include internet bandwidth, Integrated Financial Management Systems
(IFMS), Data Centre, leased lines and dark fibre.
b. NBI extended to 49 districts out of 125, namely: Kampala, Mukono, Buikwe, Jinja,
Iganga, Bugiri, Busia, Tororo, Mbale, Bukedea, Kumi, Soroti, Kaberamaido, Dokolo,
Lira, Kole, Oyam, Gulu, Amuru, Kiryandongo, Masindi, Nakasongola, Luwero, Wakiso,
Hoima, Kagadi, Kyenjojo, Kabarole, Kasese, Rubirizi, Bushenyi, Sheema, Mbarara,
Ntungamo, Kabale, Lyantonde, Lwengo, Masaka, Rakai, Mpigi, Pakwach, Nebbi,
Arua, Adjumani, Moyo, Koboko, Moroto, Katakwi and Kiryandongo. Furthermore,
border posts of Mpondwe, Vurra, Oraba, Elegu/Nimule, Busia and Malaba have
been connected to the NBI.
c. The price of internet for MDAs and LGs has significantly dropped, from an average
cost of 1 Mbps/month for US$300 in 2015 to US$70 in 2018, as a result of completion of
alternative routes to the sea cables through Mutukula and Katuna. The commercial
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have accordingly slashed their prices for 1 Mbps/
month from an average of US$515 in 2015, down to US$237 in 2018.
d. ICT innovations have been streamlined by developing guidelines under URSB to

ensure that innovators are rewarded for their creations and their intellectual property
rights are protected.
e. We have so far given Ush1.6 billion to support eight ICT Innovation Hubs located in
Kampala and other regions (Mbarara University, Muni University in Arua, Makerere
University, Innovation Village — Ntinda, Soroti University and Makerere University
Business School). These hubs provide free work spaces (including laptops and internet)
for the youth to develop their innovations. More hubs will be built in other regions.
f. Furthermore, we are providing subsidised internet bandwidth to five Business

Processing Outsourcing (BPO) innovation companies: Cameo Tech, Techno Brain,
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 161

Munu Tech, BDE Consults and Cayman Consults.
g. The National ICT Innovation and Incubation Hub at Nakawa that is currently under
construction with support from UPDF Engineering Brigade will mentor and coach SMEs.
h. NITA-U is in the process of establishing the ICT Park on 17 acres in Entebbe, donated
by the President of Uganda.
i. A BPO centre was developed at Statistics House in Kampala and is being run by a
private sector company to offer call services. Furthermore, Government is offering
incentives to BPOs.
j. Priority e-services have been identified, developed and are being rolled out in
Government MDAs as follows;
i. e-voucher, e-visa, Academic Information Management System (AIMS), e-tax,

e-logrev, Prosecution Case Management Information System (PROCAMIS) and
Online Wealth Declaration.
ii. E-Payment Gateway for managing electronic collection and disbursement of

Government funds.
iii. Authentication gateway for secure access to e- Government services.
iv. SMS Gateway and mobile gateway implemented for simplified notification services
and mobile accessibility for e-services
v. E-government procurement transparency within the procurement processes across

Government.
vi. The sector has conducted awareness drives such as the e-government Expo and
Excellence awards to build capacity and ensure uptake of e-services. Awareness
has been conducted in the areas of Cyber Laws, Information Security and
e-government services.
162 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

k. The Government, through partnership with SIMI Mobile, established the first Mobile
Phone and Computer manufacturing and assembling plant in November 2019 at the
KIBP, Namanve.
l. Orion TV that we used to import are now being produced domestically.
m. NRM has established over 1,040 school ICT laboratories intended to provide digital
literacy skills to the communities and schools. An additional 47 labs are to be launched.
4.7.2. WAY FORWARD

a. Increase ICT network coverage and penetration
i. Extend the broadband infrastructure coverage countrywide and implement last-

mile connectivity (taking internet services to the entire country) to all key service
delivery units such as schools, hospitals, police, tourism sites, districts to the NBI
conducted. Take advantage of existing infrastructure by Government and private
sector players to reach the last-mile connectivity.
ii. Provide communal broadband. For instance, transform all postal centres and
community information centres into e-services delivery channels.
iii. Expand the Digital Terrestrial Television and Radio Broadcasting network countrywide
using both satellite and terrestrial signals to ensure that it is accessible by all.
b. Promote the utilisation of ICT

i. Digitise service delivery processes across all MDAs and LGs through adoption of
new ways of delivering services, re-engineering their business processes by ensuring
that they are simplified, streamlined, optimised and develop e-solutions such as
e-health, e-education, e-extension and e-tax services.
ii. Develop a framework for standardisation and interoperability of digital services

to ensure seamless exchange of information between systems to avoid duplicate
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 163

data collection, eliminate obsolete databases and reduce operating costs. For
example, the national ID data should be connected with the SIM card, passport,
driving permit, property (such as land and vehicles) and registration databases.
iii. Develop and roll out the national post and addressing system countrywide. These
networks facilitate e-commerce, reinforce national security, ease the provision of
aid and emergency services and facilitate the planning and implementation of
public policies and services.
c. Enhance digital skills and innovation
i. Conduct digital literacy training for SMEs and awareness campaigns of ICT for
different communities across the country.
ii. Support SMEs digitisation programme to enable them participate in e-commerce to

make them resilient in post-COVID-19 era.
iii. Stimulate digital innovations across the whole economy and build a critical mass of
talent to develop applications and services that can be consumed locally and even
exported regionally and internationally.
iv. Establish regional innovation and incubation centres, ICT centres of excellence and
vocational institutions.
v. Strengthen the National ICT Initiatives Support Programme (NIISP) to support and
mentor innovators across the country in development and commercialisation of ICT
products.
vi. Establish a reservation scheme for procurement of local ICT products by the
Government and compel all MDAs to procure locally developed solutions.
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5. OIL AND GAS
5.1. INTRODUCTION
NRM is committed to ensuring Uganda’s oil and gas is fully exploited and developed. This
is why we have not hurriedly exploited them but instead taken cautious steps to move
steadily and do the right thing.
Deliberate steps have been taken to develop upstream value chain activities first before
we embark on production. The sector has transitioned from exploration and appraisal
to development and preparation for production of oil. The necessary policy, legal,
regulatory and institutional framework are in place as well as the necessary infrastructure,
to support the oil and gas activities.
In particular, Government in 2018 approved the Local Content Policy for the oil and gas
sector. The policy aims at increasing participation of Ugandans and provides principles
for capacity building for national enterprises, skills development as well as establishment
of a Local Content Development Fund to support national enterprises and promote
national participation in the industry.
In addition, the Directorate of Petroleum in the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development,
Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) and the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC)
were operationalised to promote, license, regulate the petroleum industry and manage
the business/commercial interests.
The policy, licensing and regulatory interventions have fostered effective and sustainable
management of the oil and gas sector. For instance, in 2016, Uganda completed the
first competitive licensing round resulting in the issuance of three exploration licences to
Oranto Petroleum of Nigeria and Armour Energy Ltd of Australia in 2017. Nine production
licences over 14 field discoveries we issued to Total E&P, Tullow Uganda Operations Pty
Ltd and CNOOC Uganda Ltd. This was a milestone in the development phase of the
petroleum value chain, and is being implemented under two separate projects — the
Tilenga in Buliisa and Nwoya districts and Kingfisher in Hoima and Kikuube districts.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 165

5.2. PROGRESS
a. Refinery Development
i. Lead Investor for Refinery Development: Government on 10th April 2018 signed the
Project Framework Agreement (PFA) with the Albertine Graben Refinery Consortium
(AGRC) as the potential investor who will design, build, finance and operate the
refinery. The consortium consists of Yaatra Africa LLC, Lion Works Group, Nuovo Pignone
International SRL (a Baker Hughes company), General Electric and Saipem SPA.
ii. Pre-FID (Final Investment Decisions) activities for the Refinery Project: The Front-
End Engineering and Design (FEED) study continued in Milan, Italy and is currently
estimated to be 75% complete.
The Environmental Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) commenced in March 2020. The
study will last 18 months.
iii. Land Acquisition for Refinery Development: Resettlement of Project Affected

Persons (PAPs) has progressed well, schools, houses and health centres have been
constructed and are in use. Relocation of graves to pave way for construction of
Kabaale International Airport was undertaken. Construction of the Anglican Church in
Wambabya, Buseruka and Catholic Church in Nyakasinini, Buseruka was completed
and handed over in November 2019. The police post in Kyakaboga, Buseruka is 85%
complete. All PAPs who signed for compensation (which is about 99.3%), have been
compensated. Discussions are ongoing with part of the remaining 0.7% of the affected
persons who have showed up. Marking of Refinery land boundary was completed.
b. Pipeline Development
i. The land acquisition process is ongoing for the refined products pipeline from Hoima
to Namwabula, Mpigi. Compensation and resettlement of PAPs will commence once
the valuation reports which have been submitted to the Chief Government Valuer
have been approved.
ii. East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP): The Host Government Agreement (HGA) was
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successfully concluded and signed in September 2020. This was a critical milestone
on the path to the FID for the upstream and EACOP projects. The Transportation and
Tariff Agreement and Shareholder Agreement are being negotiated with the plan to
conclude them before the end of 2020. The target is to have all the key agreements
executed by the end of 2020 in time for FID. The land acquisition process for the
EACOP corridor from Hoima to Mutukula is ongoing. The Resettlement Action Plan
(RAP) study has been finalised and the valuation reports approved by the Chief
Government Valuer. Preparations are underway to commence cash compensation
and relocation of the affected persons.
c. Kabaale Petro-based Industrial Park (KIP)
UNOC is in the process of identifying strategic partners for the development and
management of KIP. The procurement of advisory services to support the process of
identification of a strategic partner is ongoing.
The Expression of Interests (EOIs) for design consultants for the park access and arterial
roads, water reticulation network, wastewater treatment and installation of electrical
power lines in the park was published. The construction of arterial roads is intended to be
implemented in a phased manner. Furthermore, the EOI for the design of a high security
dual fence around the park is under evaluation.
d. Kampala Storage Terminal (KST)
UNOC is in the process of identifying a strategic partner for the development and
management of KST to be located in Namwabula, Mpigi.
e. Capacity building in the oil and gas sector
NRM’s policy has been the development of requisite capacity and skills to ensure
that Uganda’s interests are maximised. Towards this, Government officers continue to
undertake both long and short-term training in specialised areas of refinery design and
operations, petroleum geosciences and petroleum economics either abroad or in the
country.
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Aerial view of an oil

exploration site in
Buliisa district
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 169

f. Natural gas pipeline
In NRM’s spirit of regional co-operation we are working with the Government of Tanzania
to develop a natural gas pipeline to Uganda to mainly support the iron and steel industry;
to this effect a memorandum of understanding was signed in 2018. A joint technical
committee comprising representatives of the two states has held discussions to agree on
the modalities for undertaking a joint feasibility study.
5.3. WAY FORWARD

a. Increase efficiency in extraction of oil and gas resources.
i. Expedite the ongoing review of the National Oil and Gas Policy, 2008.
ii. Promote the country’s petroleum potential and conclude the second licensing
round.
iii. Continue geological and geophysical surveys in frontier basins and unexplored part
of the Albertine to prepare the basins for licensing and establishment of additional
reserves for the sustainability of the industry.
iv. Undertake basin analysis and resource assessment for the establishment of both
conventional and unconventional resources in the country.
v. Continue the development of standards, codes and guidelines for upstream
petroleum.
vi. Support the implementation of the local content policy.
vii. Upgrade the existing geochemistry laboratories.
b. Produce refined oil and oil byproducts for the local and export markets.
i. Conclude the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) and Environmental Social Impact
Assessment (ESIA) for refinery development.
ii. Implementation of RAP for refinery through construction of remaining social

infrastructure.
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iii. Supervise Engineering Procurement and Construction Management (EPCM) for the
EACOP project.
iv. Supervise the implementation of the RAP for the EACOP Project.
v. Undertake the feasibility study for the Natural Gas Pipeline Project from Tanzania to
Uganda.
vi. Continue the implementation of RAP for the products pipeline corridor from the
refinery at Kabaale to the storage terminal in Namwabula, Mpigi district.
vii. Undertake the development of the required regulations (tariff, metering,

decommissioning) — sector governance.
viii. Secure funding for UNOC’s equity investment in oil and gas projects (Refinery, EACOP,
KST).
ix. Secure funding for common infrastructure development for Kabaale Industrial Park
(KIP).
x. Identify strategic partners for the development and management of KIP and Kampala
Storage Terminal (KST).
xi. Undertake ESIA for KIP.
c. Increase efficiency in utilisation, transportation, storage, handling and security of stock

of petroleum.
i. Invest in LPG infrastructure, including production of affordable standardised (universal)

LPG storage units (cylinders), and establishing new LPG centres in hard-to-reach
areas.
ii. Promote alternative routes among them is lake transport of refined petroleum
products.
iii. Restocking and facilities’ upgrade of the Jinja Storage Tanks (JST) to enhance security
of supply and continue bulk trading in petroleum products.
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6. MINERAL-LED INDUSTRIALISATION
NRM is committed to ensuring that Uganda’s mineral wealth, using a science-led

approach, is fully exploited to develop an integrated industrialisation agenda.
Using import substitution and export promotion strategies, NRM’s policy is to industrialise
using Uganda’s mineral resources. This is why, amidst criticisms, we banned the export
of raw/unprocessed minerals. Our policy is to use our scientists to develop integrated
industries around every single mineral found in Uganda.
In addition to oil and gas deposits, Uganda has vast potential of metallic mineral deposits,
including gold, iron ore, zinc, niobium-tantalum (or columbite-tantalite), tin (cassiterite),
copper-cobalt, lead, beryllium, wolfram, bismuth bismutite, chromium, lithium and
titanium.
Non-metallic minerals include bentonite, diatomite, kaolin, limestone, marble, vermiculite,

gypsum, phosphates, feldspar, aggregate, crushed and dimension stone, glass sands,
sand, clays and salt.
Results from mineral exploration have revealed the potential for uranium, platinum group
minerals, nickel, diamonds and rare earth elements.
In particular, discoveries which require promotion and development include iron ore
reserves, which stand at about 350 million tonnes of confirmed reserve with a resource
base of over 1 billion tonnes inferred; over 1 billion tonnes of marble in Karamoja; 12 million
ounces of gold at Wagagai in Busia; 1.7 billion tonnes of graphite in Orom in Kitgum; 300
million tonnes of estimated reserves of rare earth elements and an additional 700 million
tonnes of indicated reserves in Makuutu – Buwaaya in Iganga district plus an estimated 3
billion tonnes of kaolin and bentonite in Kaiso Tonya.
Some of the minerals available in Uganda are yet to be quantified.
To develop Uganda’s mineral potential for the industrialisation agenda, NRM is going to
use a two-pronged approach.
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First, work towards the development of complete science-led industrial value chains of
five priority minerals namely: iron ore, gold, copper/cobalt, phosphates and building
minerals (marble, silica sand and limestone).
Second, continue to support the science-led development initiatives for other minerals.
From the first approach, we hope to develop the iron and steel value chain that can
contribute to the metal fabrication industry of many youth-led enterprises. Cobalt will
contribute to the development of local batteries that can be used in electric cars
manufactured by Kiira Motors.
In addition to the construction industry, NRM plans to explore the use of silica sand for
other secondary and tertiary uses such as glass manufacture and quartz extraction for
the manufacture of semiconductor.
Scientists need to be supported to develop these complex but very useful technologies
to support the ICT industry.
6.1 PROGRESS
a. The geological and mineral potential of the country has been ascertained. NRM has
conducted mineral exploration in various parts of the country to establish the potential,
as follows:
i. A total of 118 million tonnes (MT) of iron ore was identified in Rutenga, (30 MT)
in Kabale (73 MT) and Muko (15 MT), bringing the total iron ore in southwestern
Uganda to 318 MT. The iron ore in Kabale and Muko is mapped to be associated
with gold, nickel, zinc, tin, titanium and wolfram.
ii. New discoveries of iron ore deposits have been evaluated in; Kanungu, Buhara
(Kabale district) and Mayuge district, with a total reserve of over 200 million tonnes.
iii. Five minerals were evaluated for development: gold, zinc, copper and nickel in
Zeu, Adjumani, uranium in Katara, Buhweju district and wolfram in Kirwa.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 173

iv. Extensive sand deposits in Lake Victoria. Estimated reserves of 34,093,084 tonnes
(34 MT) covering an area of 9km2 at an average thickness of 1.5m.
v. Established and confirmed uranium of: 48.2 ppm in Nkandwa, Kiboga district;
904 ppm in Katara, Buhweju district and 450.6 ppm associated with chromium,
copper, lead, wolfram, tin and zinc in Kyambogo, Sembabule district.
b. NRM has also attracted private sector to conduct mineral exploration in various parts
of the country as follows:
i. Wagagai Mining (U) Limited has established gold deposits in Busia district.
ii. Simba Mines Ltd is developing an underground gold mine in Ibanda district.
iii. Consolidated African Mineral Resources Ltd has discovered huge deposits of
graphite in Kitgum district.
iv. Sipa Exploration (U) Ltd has identified a copper-cobalt-nickel anomaly in Kitgum
district.
c. NRM is setting up a modern mineral laboratory in Entebbe. Currently, 70% of the work
is done. The lab is substantially equipped and has trained personnel, and we have now
embarked on securing ISO accreditation.
d. In line with the policy to improve the management and administration of the mining
sector, the following have been achieved:
i. The licensing for mineral resources has been streamlined and is now fully online.
ii. Artisanal and small-scale miners have been registered, trained and legalised in
Mubende, Kassanda, Busia, Moroto, Ntungamo and Buhweju.
iii. A new policy, legal and regulatory framework is being promulgated to further
unlock the sector’s GDP contribution.
e. In line with the policy objective of value-addition on minerals, investors have been
attracted as follows:
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i. Gold: A private company (African Gold Refinery) set up refinery in Entebbe near the
Entebbe International Airport. Gold can now be refined and packaged into pure
gold bars in Uganda. Two other refineries, Bullion and Simba Gold, have also been set
up. This is partly the reason gold exports have increased tremendously from US$3.25
million in 2013 to US$1,258 million in 2019, according to a Bank of Uganda report, 2020.
ii. Sukulu Phosphate and Steel Project: M/S Guangzhou Dongsong Energy Group Co. Ltd
is developing the phosphates, steel, glass, cement and brick products. The project
was launched on 12th October 2018 and commenced trial production of bio-organic
fertiliser. It also started production of building materials.
iii. Marble Mining and Processing Project in Moroto district: Sunbelt Mining acquired mining
lease, ML1954 granted on 30th May 2019 to mine and process marble, granite and
sandstone resources. The lease covering an area of 331.8462ha (3.318sq.km) is located at
Rupa, 17km north of Moroto town on topographic map sheet 27/3. The marble reserve is
562,356,000 tonnes determined through detailed exploration including drilling and is mined
using an open pit mining method. The total investment cost is US$350 million and estimated
operational cost of US$8 million annually. The planned annual production is set at 4.6 tonnes
annually giving a life span of 122 years of the mine. The gross revenue of US$30 million per
year is expected. Currently the company is mining and stockpiling marble blocks at Rupa.
The processing plant will be established at Matheniko, Rupa in Moroto away from the mining
area to manufacture tiles and slabs from the marble blocks mined.
President Museveni during the commissioning of Sunbelt Marble Factory

at Nanyidik Village in Rupa sub-county, Moroto district on 26th March 2020
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 175

iv. Tin: A private company (African Panthers Ltd) is setting up a plant in Kikagati, Isingiro
district with daily capacity 960 tonnes of feed per day, resulting in an expected
production of 150 tonnes of processed tin concentrate per month.
v. Goodwill Ceramics Ltd manufactures tiles from clay, kaolin and feldspar at a factory
located in Kapeeka, Nakaseke district, about 30km north of Kampala using locally sourced
materials. This investment has had a tremendous impact on Uganda’s construction
industry since it has reduced prices of tiles by over half, making them affordable for many
Ugandans. Furthermore, it has saved Uganda US$30 million in tile imports per year. Besides,
there is a market for Goodwill tiles in East Africa.
vi. Four cement factories are now operating in the country, generating competition that has
stabilised prices. These are:
l Hima Cement in Kasese and Tororo
l Tororo Cement in Tororo
l Simba Cement in Tororo
l Kampala Cement in Mukono
vii. Namekara Mining Co. Ltd (NMCL) is mining vermiculite in Busumbu, Manafwa district. The
mine produces 30,000 tpa of high-grade vermiculite.
viii. A new investor is being sourced to take over Kilembe Mines and revamp it to its former
glory.
6.2. WAY FORWARD

Over the next five years we are going to use a two-pronged approach. First, minerals whose
quantities and values are known — and where studies and work towards their development
have already commenced — will be fully developed using a science-led approach and an
integrated industry will be built around them.
In particular, the iron ore industry will be prioritised and developed along the entire value
chain.
Second, more studies are going to be undertaken to ascertain the quantity and quality of the
minerals for development.
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In particular;
a. We are going to increase value-addition in iron ore, gold, copper, phosphates, and develop
minerals (marble, silica sand, aggregate, and limestone) as follows:
i. Conduct bankable feasibility studies for strategic high-value minerals, namely iron
ore, gold, rare earth elements, uranium and tin, tungsten and tantalite (3Ts), to attract
investment.
ii. In the short term, working with the private sector, Uganda Railways Corporation (URC)
will provide a dedicated ship to transport coal from Tanzania to Uganda to support local
production of liquid steel. Other incentives to reduce transportation of the iron ore from
Muko and other mines to factory for processing and reduce importation of billets will also
be provided.
iii. In the medium term, develop the natural gas pipeline from Tanzania to Uganda to support
local production of liquid steel.
iv. Explore the mineral potential in Busoga sub-region, especially in regards to rare earth
elements.
v. Put in place mineral analytical infrastructure for two additional mineral commodities and
two mineral beneficiation techniques.
vi. Construct the eastern regional mineral beneficiation centre.
vii. Develop small-scale gold miners in Busia, Bugiri and Bugweri districts for extraction and
marketing purification.
viii. Establish and operate a mineral certification system in Entebbe to increase mineral trade
and global competitiveness. Three; Tin, Tungsten and Tantalite (3T) mines certified.
ix. Mapping, registration and organisation of artisanal and small-scale miners countrywide.
The target is to zone areas for their operations and ensure that 40 location licences are
issued to them, establish and gazette mineral buying centres.
x. Rehabilitation of areas impacted by mining activities in Kilembe Mines.

xi. Maintain functional and unencumbered income-generating Kilembe Mines Limited (KML)
assets.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 177

xii. Use the iron and steel industry to support the knowledge-based technology hubs through
relevant research centres like Kiira Motors.
b. Explore and quantify priority mineral resources across the country, as follows:
i. Undertake geological studies and mineral exploration on strategic minerals. Four strategic
minerals will be evaluated and classified for public and private investment.
ii. Carry out aerial geophysical survey of Karamoja to complete geophysical map national
coverage.
iii. Continue to support research towards the development of alternative affordable
fertilisers to replace the imported fertilisers.
iv. Support research geared towards the synthesis of mineral-based raw materials for local
industries.
v. Strengthen and expand seismological networks and monitor other geo-hazards and
design the infrasound network infrastructure in Uganda. At least one seismological
network developed per year and infrasound network infrastructure installed.
At least one seismological network developed per year and infrasound network infrastructure
installed. Detailed surface studies of Ihimbo and Kanangorok geothermal prospects will be
carried out. And we will maintain the Mining Cadastre and Registry System as well as Geology
and Mineral Information System.
vi. Promote and market the country’s mineral and geothermal potential for investment.
Package mineral and geothermal potential information for local, regional and
international fora.
vii. Site, design and prepare tender documents for drilling three deep exploration and
injection two wells at either Kibiro in Buliisa district or Panyimur in Pakwach district.
viii. Feasibility studies for geothermal direct use at Buranga in Bundibugyo district and
Panyimur.
ix. Drill 10 geothermal gradient wells at Buranga and Katwe in Bundibugyo and Kasese
districts respectively.
c. Strengthen the legal and regulatory framework as well as the human and institutional
capacity.
i. Complete the review of the legal and regulatory framework for the effective governance
of the mineral sub-sector
ii. Continue inspecting and monitoring exploration and mining activities.
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7. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY
ENGINEERING AND INNOVATION
7.1. INTRODUCTION
NRM is intent on using Science, Technology, Engineering and Innovation (STEI) to transform
the fortunes of the people of Uganda. Science deals with seeking to understand the
laws that govern observed natural phenomena. Technology is the sum of techniques,
skills, methods, and processes used in the production of goods or services or in the
accomplishment of objectives. Engineering deals with the application of science to
create systems and convert natural resources for the benefit of mankind. Innovation is
the process of translating an idea or invention into a good or service that creates value
for customers or society.
The four (science, technology, engineering and innovation) are key drivers of socio-
economic development, by virtue of their capacity to improve productivity, enhance
private sector competitiveness, promote accelerated growth and create jobs. Further,
they are universally recognised as fundamental ingredients for poverty eradication,
wealth creation and sustainable development. The large disparities in income and
social development between developed and developing countries are rooted in the
considerable differences in their use of technology, and the resulting gaps in their
productivity. Societies that have embraced and harnessed STEI have developed faster.
Conversely, those that have lagged behind in the STEI area now find themselves in
danger of being increasingly dependent on other economies and unable to handle
the vagaries of nature (e.g. outbreaks of disease, drought, floods, hunger and global
warming). They also face the prospect of being conquered by others, enslaved or,
even, being exterminated — as happened with the American Indians and the Australian
Aborigines. Africa was colonised, at least in part, not because it lacked kings, priests
and musicians, but because the continent lagged behind in STEI. Centuries later, most of
Africa continues to lag behind in STEI advancement. Meanwhile, the rest of the world is
positioning itself for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (also known as Industry 4.0 or 4IR). The
4IR will be characterised by technology breakthroughs in fields of artificial intelligence,
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 179

robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality, autonomous vehicles, 3D printing, block
chain technology, nanotechnology, biotechnology, materials science, energy storage,
and quantum computing.
NRM is determined to ensure that Uganda catches up and is not left behind as was the
case with the previous industrial revolutions. To achieve this, we are going to focus on
leveraging STEI and creating an enabling environment for innovators. We are going to
deal with the challenges encumbering STEI development. The key challenges have been
weak technology-related infrastructure, lack of stakeholder and institutional synergy
crippling bureaucracy in Government, human capital challenges, poor absorption of
research outputs, and inadequate protection of intellectual property rights. In spite of
these challenges, we have registered good progress and continue to work towards
strengthening the STEI ecosystem and building resilient STEI infrastructure.
7.2. PROGRESS
a. Creation of Ministry and Sector of Science, Technology and Innovation
Cognisant of the importance of STEI, NRM created a dedicated Ministry of Science,

Technology and Innovation (MoSTI) in 2016 and accorded STI sector status in 2017. The
affiliated agencies under the MoSTI are Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI), Uganda
National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST), Banana Industrial Research and
Development Centre (BIRDC) and Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC). The core mandate of
MoSTI is to provide policy guidance and co-ordination in matters of scientific research
and development, as well as define the national science, technology and innovation
ecosystem. Efforts to this end include alignment of STEI to areas of competitive advantage
and national needs as Uganda strives to move up the value chain from labour intensive
to knowledge-led (smart) production systems.
b. Establishment of the Machining, Manufacturing and Industrial Skills Development

Centre (MMISDC) at Namanve
Through the Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI), NRM has established a US$30
million Machining, Manufacturing and Industrial Skills Development Centre (MMISDC) at
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the Kampala Industrial Business Park (KIBP), Namanve. The facility was commissioned by
His Excellency the President on 15th January 2020. NRM has so far availed Ush10 billion to
facilitate initial stages of operationalising the facility, which aims to address appropriate
technology and human capital gaps by introducing modern methods and practices for
machining and manufacturing, as well as providing a much needed platform for industrial
apprenticeship. The MMISDC will address specialised skills development in areas that
include but are not limited to; mechatronics, computerised numerical control precision
machining, programmable logic control, advanced welding and non-destructing testing,
and material testing. The facility will also facilitate the manufacture of machine parts
and spares, progressing to implements and sub-assemblies, and eventually machines.
The goal of these operations is to generate revenue on the road to MMISDC becoming
self-sustaining.
President Yoweri Museveni (wearing hat) on a guided tour of the Industrial Skills Training and Production Centre in
Namanve Industrial Park on 15th January 2020
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 181

c. Value-Addition and Import Substitution in the Nascent Automotive Industry
NRM, in recognition of the economic transformative opportunity in the domestic and

regional automotive industry value chain pledged Ush143.7 billion to establish Kiira
Motors Corporation and construct Phase I of the Kiira Vehicle Plant, in the Jinja Industrial
and Business Park. The Kiira Vehicle Plant Phase I is designed for production of up to
22 vehicles (buses and trucks) a day (5,000 vehicles annually). With Ush58 billion so far
released, construction of the Kiira Vehicle Plant, which is undertaken by the UPDF through
National Enterprise Corporation, was at 60% of completion in September 2020. This
investment is expected to create over 14,000 jobs and catalyse investment by small and
medium enterprises in the manufacture of vehicle parts, components and autonomy
systems (brake pads, seats, bolts and nuts, bumpers, vehicle electronics, navigation
system, digital mobility solutions such as ticketing and cashless payments management,
among others). It is also projected to increase demand for the utilisation of Uganda’s
natural resources such as steel from iron ore deposits; plastics from oil and gas, lithium
ion batteries from graphite, lithium and cobalt deposits, vehicle upholstery and interior
padding from cotton and leather, glass from silica and sand among others.
Through technology transfer from China and utilisation of production facilities at the
Luwero Industries in Nakasongola, the Kayoola Electric Vehicle System (EVS), a premium
zero-emissions city bus with a range of 300km was developed and two units built and
deployed on the road for market validation.
The Kayoola EVS seeks to improve public transport, operational and fuel efficiency
within our cities coupled with enhanced environmental stewardship. It costs Ush32,000
per 100km to operate the Kayoola EVS as compared to the Diesel Bus equivalent at
Ush167,000 for the same distance. The Kayoola EVS parts such as bamboo floor, interior
parts made of plastics and aluminium; and steel superstructure and body panels will
ultimately be manufactured in Uganda. This provides an unprecedented opportunity for
investment in the automotive industry, an industry of industries to deepen value-addition
engendering supply chain localisation and import substitution.
NRM government secured a World Manufacturers’ Identifier for vehicles from the
International Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). This implies that vehicles assembled
in Uganda can now be uniquely identified in the international market, paving way for
export of vehicles made in Uganda.
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The Kayoola Bus is specifically designed for urban transport
President Museveni commissioning the NYOKA Conversion Project at the Manufacturing and Assembling Plant for
armoured vehicles at the Mayuge-based Magamaga Barracks on 8th August 2018
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 183

d. Revitalisation of silk production in Uganda
Silk is one of the most expensive textile fibres known to man, with a unit price roughly 20
times that of raw cotton. Comparative studies on income generation for the farmer rank
sericulture (the rearing of silk worms for silk production) higher than both of Uganda’s
main crops (coffee and cotton) in income generation for a given acreage. While most
crops are grown and harvested once a year, a farmer can harvest silk four to eight
times in the same period. Globally, the demand for silk far outstrips its production. The
same holds true for Uganda. Silk production is done on just 15,000 acres compared to
500,000 for coffee and 200,000 for cotton. Sericulture is labour-intensive, which means
it can employ more of the jobless youth. It can also be a very good vehicle for rural
development and general improvement of the standards of living at the village level.
Conservative estimates show Uganda has the capacity to produce 20,000 tonnes of
silk annually (worth Ush344 trillion) since Ugandan soils are favourable for mulberry tree
growing. Silk moths lay their eggs on mulberry tree leaves, while silkworms feed on the
leaves to produce silk cocoons, from which silk is produced.
Eventually this effort will relieve Uganda from spending billions on importation of silk fabrics
(for making gomesi, kanzus, mshanana, myenda and hijabs), on top of earning the country
much-needed foreign exchange through exports. For this reason, NRM government has
intensified efforts to revitalise silk production. Uganda started research on silk as early as
1920 establishing 22 sericulture centres between 1994 and 1999, but it staggered along.
This was blamed on lack of technology for value-addition, which forced farmers to sell
cocoons at low prices until they gave up. NRM is fixing these challenges and has built
capacity for sericulture for 1,203 farmers and 33 extension officers through training in
best practices for mulberry cultivation and silkworm management. NRM government
has also supported the establishment of Mulberry Plantations/Gardens for silk cocoon
production in the districts of Sheema, Mbarara, Mubende, Bulambuli, Iganga, Kamuli,
Buikwe, Kayunga, Luwero, Mukono, Busia, Wakiso, Pallisa, Zombo, Kiruhura, Nwoya and
Bukedea. Production of silk yarn and silk fibre is being piloted in Sheema district, with
plans to roll it out to other parts of the country. Construction of the facility in Sheema has
been completed and equipment is being procured.
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e. Establishment of the Research and Innovation Fund
The Research and Innovation Fund was established to encourage innovation and
enhance operationalisation of innovations that had been lying dormant. A total of Ush40
billion has so far been allocated over three years to fund innovations under STEI sector.
Under the research and innovation fund, a number of innovations were supported some
of which include:
i) Luwoko (Phytolacca Dodecandra) products

These control a number of tropical parasitical diseases, including bilharzia in humans
as well as foot-and-mouth disease in animals.
ii. Low-cost solar irrigation pumps

Agricultural production and productivity in Uganda have overtime been affected by
unreliable rainfall seasons and extended dry spells due to climate change variability,
resulting in poor quality and reduced yields since many farmers solely rely on rain-fed
agriculture. One of the solutions to this problem is irrigation. Uganda has an abundance
of both surface and underground water sources that can be exploited for irrigation.
However, limited awareness, availability and the high cost of irrigation infrastructure
have constrained exploitation. It is in this regard that NRM government has supported
the development of a low-cost solar water pump to support affordable irrigation
among smallholder farmers of up to 5ha of land. Both submersible and surface water
pumps of up to 50 m heads with a flow capacity of up to 5 m3/ hour have been
developed. Production is expected to start in 2021. With this innovation, 200 model
farmers in Eastern, Northern, Western and Central Uganda have so far been reached,
with expansion efforts underway.
iii. ICT Innovations

Under ICT, Government availed Ush15 billion that went towards supporting ICT
innovations under the National ICT Initiatives Support Programme. Uganda has been
a net importer of ICT systems and solutions. If we support our local ICT talent we can
leverage our ICT investments. The money was given as direct financial support for
innovations that were ready to go to the market. Some of the innovations that were
supported include: an Integrated information system locally designed and customised
for computerisation of student information, financial and other institutional functions;
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a non-invasive solution that tests for kidney functionality; a mobile-based application,

which facilitates communication between blood donors and blood donation centres
so that the appropriate donor can be reached just in time; a mobile application
which, translates sign language into speech; an application, which supports the
acquisition of localised solar power; and software designed to deliver extension
services to farmers.
f. Support for Applied Research and Development
NRM government continues to support scientists who are involved in research aimed at
finding solutions to societal challenges. Our scientists at UIRI have made good strides in
this regard. They have, among other achievements, pioneered the local production of
biomedical devices that are easy to use and affordable. Noteworthy is the Electronically
Controlled Gravity Feed (ECGF) infusion set, a medical device designed to automatically
and accurately administer intravenous (IV) fluids to patients. Erroneous infusion delivery
rates can have adverse effects or even cause death. The technology which has already
been clinically tested and internationally patented will contribute towards saving lives in
the region and beyond. Our scientists at UIRI have also developed modern process and
product prototypes of UNBS-compliant quality disposable sanitary pads from local raw
materials, including cotton and banana fibre. This is a step in the right direction towards
sustainable local industrial production of sanitary pads. Many girls and women in Uganda
lack access to options for managing menstruation. This causes embarrassment, shame
and deflated self-worth, leading many girls to abandon school, work and productive life
for about 72 days a year, perpetuating the economic gender divide. Local production
of sanitary pads will thus contribute towards keeping girls in school as well as empowering
women to engage actively in all income-generating activities throughout the year.
g. Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF)
Makerere University received special funding from Government, earmarked to support

high-impact research and innovations that address national development priorities.
The Research and Innovation Fund (RIF) illustrates the increasing importance that
NRM government attaches to research and innovation as drivers of development and
national transformation. The objective of the fund is to increase the local generation
of translatable research and scalable innovations that address key gaps in the pursuit
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of Uganda’s development agenda. The fund is, therefore, aimed at complementing

available research funding to address unfunded priorities critical to accelerating
development across different sectors of the economy in Uganda. Over the concluded
financial year (2019/20), Makerere University received a total of Ush30 billion under the RIF.
In the current Financial Year (2020/2021), an additional Ush30 billion has been allocated.
A total of 447 projects have already been funded in response to national development
needs.
h. Banana Industrial Development and Value-Addition
NRM has established the Banana Industrial Research and Development Centre (BIRDC) to
succeed the Presidential Initiative for Banana Industrial Development (PIBID) as the focal
entity for valorisation of bananas in Uganda. BIRDC has been well equipped and boasts of a
processing plant for large-scale production of banana flour, built around a three-step process
for banana value-addition. The first stage involves drying of green bananas into dried banana
chips; the second involves processing of banana chips into banana flour and the third is where
the banana flour is used to produce a variety of consumer products (baked goods, industrial
biscuits, porridge). BIRDC also conducts research and development related to banana
production and value-addition. In addition to BIRDC, Government, through the research
and innovation fund has supported the commercial production of fresh vacuum sealed
matooke and banana juice (eshande) from bananas. Banana juice is a traditional product of
Uganda, mainly processed in homesteads of smallholder banana growers, often under very
basic conditions. The juice is characterised by a short shelf-life and poor product presentation
(usually sold in recycled jerricans). Because of this, the market for banana juice has been small
and artisanal processing of banana for juice has to a large extent been replaced by the more
profitable, unlicensed processing for “Waragi” a high-alcohol-content gin, with long shelf life
and larger demand. This has contributed to the rampant abuse of alcohol that’s prevalent
in many of our communities. Commercialisation of banana juice is thus a good strategy for
reduction of alcohol production and consumption in local communities. This innovation has
also broadened the market for banana juice, both local and international.
i. National Science, Technology, Engineering and Skills Enhancement Centre
NRM government through UNCST is establishing the National Science, Technology and
Engineering Innovation Centre (NSTEIC) at Rwebitete in Kiruhura district in an effort to build
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 187

the skill base of Ugandans as well as bridge the gap between skill-set of our youth and the
labour market. The centre will offer training in nine technology majors of metallurgy (welding
& fabrication), industrial/mechanical technology, automotive technology, civil construction
technology, electropneumatics, agricultural mechanisation, leather products processing
technology, and textile design. The expected outcomes of this effort are job creation,
increased participation of Ugandans in national infrastructure development projects;
emergence of technology-oriented business start-ups.
j. Establishment of the National Space Programme
NRM, through MoSTI, has started the National Space Programme to expedite the development
of the aerospace industry and space science programmes in a well-co-ordinated and
harmonised manner. World over, the application of Space Science and Technology (SST)
promotes sustainable development in virtually all sectors of the economy. Since the late
1950s when the first human-made satellites were launched into space, countries continue
to rely on SST for various scientific and technological applications such as communication
services; meteorological observations; precision weather forecasting; natural resources
monitoring; telemedicine; tele-education; disaster warning; search and rescue operations;
remote sensing and scientific studies of space (astronomy) and space weather; security and
defence. Uganda is positioning itself through this programme to also tap into these benefits.
k. STI COVID-19 Response
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Government has so far committed Ush31.032 billion
to support scientists in the local development of COVID-19 vaccines, drugs and diagnostics,
including purchase of state-of-the art scientific and laboratory equipment to aid the scientists
in this task. In addition to this effort, UIRI repurposed its textile research and production unit for
the manufacture of three-layer cloth face masks as a COVID-19 intervention. The high quality,
reusable masks, which are UNBS certified, were supplied to the Ministry of Health as part of
Government’s pledge to the people of Uganda.
l. Protection of Intellectual Property rights
Intellectual Property (IP) refers to creations of the mind. The improvement in the quality of
human life and man’s transition from a primitive existence to modernity are attributed to
discoveries in medicine, engineering and architecture. It is through the creations of the
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human mind that we have been able to tame nature throughout the four and a half million
years of man’s existence on earth. Therefore, it is crucial that innovations are protected and
innovators rewarded for their creations. Intellectual Property rights grant the owner of the work
exclusive rights to exploit and benefit from his/her creation. Globally, nations with valuable
economies have their innovation eco-systems built around efficient intellectual property
systems. NRM government is committed to do the same for Uganda and has made progress
in this regard. Through the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), we have launched
the National Intellectual Property Policy as a step towards giving innovators full protection for
their creations. We have also created a department under MoSTI dedicated to innovation
and intellectual property management as a deliberate effort towards cultivating a national
IP ecosystem and promoting creativity.
m. Agricultural Research and Development
Through the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), NRM government has
in the past two terms developed and disseminated over 800 Technologies, Innovations
and Management Practices (TIMPs), which have increased agricultural productivity and
production, with a resultant growth of the sector by 3.8%. These TIMPs have tremendously
contributed to appropriate use of natural resources, improvement of food and nutrition
security and increase in household incomes. Some of the success stories of agricultural
research and development are:
i. Coffee development — NARO developed and promoted 10 coffee wilt disease-resistant

varieties with an established yield of 3.9 tonne/ha compared to the disease-susceptible
varieties that yielded on average 1.5 tonne/ha. NARO also developed superior and
climate-smart agronomic practices that have increased coffee yields by 30% and
reduced disease and pest incidence from 50% in 2004 to less than 10% by 2017, saving
the country a loss of Ush0.624 trillion annually. Over 160 nursery enterprises got engaged
in production and distribution of the improved coffee seedlings, thereby increasing
employment of women and youth across the country.
ii. Bio-fortification to address micronutrient deficiencies — NARO has developed zinc and
iron-rich bean varieties, Vitamin-A enriched sweet potatoes and Vitamin-A enriched
bananas (yet to be released) through bio-fortification. These are curbing micronutrient
deficiency disorders particularly in women and children. NARO has also developed seven
bio-fortified (high concentration of iron and zinc) bean varieties that yield more than
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 189

2 tonne/ha compared to traditional varieties that yield 1-1.5 tonne/ha. The improved
varieties of beans cumulatively made Uganda rank second, after Tanzania, in bean
production.
iii. Improved rice varieties — NARO has released seven superior high-yielding rice varieties,
two of which are hybrid and five are inbred varieties, with yield potential ranging from
4.9-6.5 tonne/ha and 4.5-5.0 tonne/ha respectively. These varieties, in addition to higher
yields, are resistant to common rice diseases, mature within a shorter time (95-135 days)
and have desirable aroma, texture and other cooking attributes.
iv. Improved maize variety — NARO developed and released for commercial production 10
stress-resilient hybrid maize varieties in the last five years responding to climate change and
other production constraints. These released varieties yield 7-9 tonne/ha compared to old
farmer-recycled varieties that yield less than 3 tonne/ha. In addition, NARO developed
and promoted an improved version of Uganda’s most popular maize variety (OPV Longe
5D) which has a high protein content, good agronomic qualities, disease resistance and
good market potential. Other specialty varieties were also released for various attributes:
3 disease resistant varieties for the management of striga and two highland-adapted
disease-resistant and early maturing varieties with a high yield of up to 10-12 tonne/ha.
This investment in breeding and development of new maize varieties has revolutionised
the country’s seed industry.
v. Technology for the fish industry development — NARO spearheaded adoption of cage
and pond fish farming technologies and improved the growth rate of Nile tilapia through
genetic improvement from 0.52g/day to 2.47g/day and promoted large scale application
of best management practices. In addition, NARO produced 377,930 fast growing fish
fingerings (Nile tilapia and mirror carp) and supplied to 314 fish farmers in 43 districts of
Uganda to support pond and cage fish farming this effort also supported the existing
60 fish hatcheries in Uganda. NARO efforts contributed to increased annual farmed fish
production.
vi. Biological control of invasive water weeds — Since Kariba weed’s invasion of Ugandan
water bodies, on average it had covered 90% of the water surface of the Kyoga-Nile,
Lake Albert, Lake Kwania, Lake Nakwa and Kibimba Dam by 2017. This invasion severely
reduced water quality for both human and livestock use and increased incidence of
water borne diseases by 77%. The floating weed also greatly hampered water transport,
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and caused an estimated annual fish revenue loss of Ush20.5 million per fisher man per
year. The weed also blocks hydro-electricity power turbines, which increases the cost
of electricity generation. In 2017, NARO deployed biological control technologies
(cyrtobagous salviniea weevils) on the affected water bodies. The weevils have cleared
about 71% on average Kariba weed (Lake Kwania 100%, Lake Nakwa 80%, lake Kyoga
25% and Kibimba dam 80%) leading to restoration of fishing business, water transport and
access to clean water.
vii. Improved cassava variety — NARO scientists developed and disseminated six high-
yielding varieties that are resistant to two major diseases — cassava mosaic virus disease
and cassava brown streak virus diseases — which had almost wiped out cassava and
devastated communities that depend on it for food and income. The new varieties
continue to restore cassava as a food, cash and industrial raw material crop. NARO has
embarked on promoting planting cassava by machines (using cassava planters) and
also harvesting by machine (using up-rooter). Through this mechanisation cassava plant
population increased by 35%, translating into yield increase by a similar margin. This will
increase cassava production and productivity and hence meet the demand of the
emerging cassava-based factories in the country.
viii. Management of banana bacterial wilt and improving banana productivity — Through
NARO, the incidence of banana bacterial wilt has significantly reduced. NARO further
promoted improved pilot agronomic practices in the banana-growing regions, which
increased banana productivity by reaching up to 51,000 banana farmers in three pilot
counties of Nakaseke-Luwero, Rwimi- Fort Portal and Birere-Isingiro.
ix. Improved Dairy and Beef Productivity — NARO developed and promoted improved
pastures that are high yielding, nutritious and drought tolerant. This improved milk
production of local breeds from 2.6 to 6.7 litres/day/animal, and reduced the time taken
to attain market weight of 400kg from five to three years. NARO has also introduced Viking
Jersey, a cattle-breed that is resilient to climate change conditions, with high production
capacity of about 20-25 litres per day. NARO scientists are going to promote the Jersey
through in-vitro fertilisation technologies where 1,000 embryos per animal annually shall
be harvested and implanted into surrogate mothers.
x. Vaccine Research and Development — NARO has developed four anti-tick vaccines with
a mean cross-protective efficacy of 75%, which is higher than that of the only available
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 191

commercial anti-tick vaccine whose efficacy is 50%. These vaccines present an exciting
possibility for sustainable control and management of tick burdens in Uganda’s livestock
sector.
7.3. WAY FORWARD

Over the next five years, we will focus on creating an enabling environment for STEI and
strengthening our STEI capacity. We will achieve this through the following ways:
a. Adoption of a multi-sectoral approach to STEI development. For implementation of

STEI projects, there will be deliberate collaboration among the relevant Government
agencies, stakeholder groups and sectors. If UDC, for example, is setting up a factory
for the commercialisation of an agro-innovation, they must work with UIRI which will
give direction on suitable industrial varieties, product attributes, process parameters
and technology requirements. They must work with NARO so that the desired variety
and quality are promoted among farmers. They must work with the farmers so that
they are on board with the project. They must work with UEPB on how to tap into
the export market for the manufactured product. This will deal with the issue of poor
institutional synergies and working in silos.
b. We are going to increase our funding to research institutions for acquisition of state-
of-the-art technologies necessary to support research and production activities.
Once this is done, our scientists will be better positioned to serve more people,
and to conduct applied research for turnkey solutions to some of our challenges.
For example, once funding is availed, our scientists at UIRI will undertake industrial
research for mineral beneficiation. Uganda has large deposits of industrial minerals
which can be processed into mineral-based products such as ceramic ware, fertiliser,
dustless chalk, ornaments, building materials, and industrial ingredients. UIRI’s scientists
will engage in advanced applied mineral research for the development of value-
addition to products and commercially viable processes. This will go a long way in
enabling Uganda to valorise and optimally utilise her mineral endowments.
c. Establishment of Technology Business Incubators (TBIs). TBIs are a type of business

incubator focused on supporting start-ups which use modern technologies to create/
produce their innovations. A business incubator offers a unique and highly flexible
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combination of physical and technological infrastructure, business development

processes and expertise, designed to nurture and grow new and small businesses by
supporting them through early stages of development and change. These facilities
will enhance the capacity of Ugandan entrepreneurs to participate in science and
technology enterprises. The TBIs will also serve to support skilling of young technicians
and engineers; retooling of unemployed graduates and supporting them to establish
start-up businesses for manufacturing of local products. The TBIs will be established in
different parts of the country.
d. NRM government will operationalise the Kiira Vehicle Plant and set up an automotive
industrial and technology park to support a wide range of related investments such
as manufacture of auto parts, vehicle testing and automotive technology innovation
enterprises. Government will stimulate the local commercial production of vehicles
by providing an off-take market for the vehicles it has been importing. KMC, in
collaboration with Victoria Motors Ltd, will utilise the vehicle plant for assembly of the
Mitsubishi Pickup and later the Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Outlander. This effort
also presents an export opportunity within the region given the requirement for similar
vehicles, particularly pickups. In addition to this, Government will provide the initial
market for the locally assembled buses as part of its effort to improve public transport
and decongest cities, and in line with BUBU policy. The Kampala metropolitan bus
transit system alone requires over 7,000 buses with a replacement cycle of eight
years. This presents a great opportunity for our automotive industry.
e. Through the Research and Innovation Fund and Emyooga, we are going to provide
flexible financing arrangements to encourage innovative private firms to undertake
risks in developing new products, processes, and services. We have also launched the
Security Interest in Movable Property Registry System (SIMPO), an initiative designed
through URSB and backed by the Security Interest in Movable Property Act of 2019
to facilitate access to affordable credit using movable assets such as intellectual
property, farm produce, livestock, inventory, vehicles, equipment, and account
receivables as collateral. In trying to access loans and other credit facilities, financial
institutions often require immovable assets like land and buildings, as collateral,
leaving out those who own equally valuable movable assets. SIMPO is a web-based
registry which, contains registered security interests in movable assets. Registration
is done by authorised creditors like banks, microfinance institutions, SACCOs and
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 193

moneylenders, or their representatives, and the information entered is available to

the general public for searches using the prescribed criteria.
f. Better pay for scientists. NRM has been a strong advocate for better pay for scientists.
We will strengthen efforts to ensure that scientists in Uganda are paid salaries
comparable to those in developed countries. This will motivate them to serve better
and will contribute towards controlling brain drain, which has been contributing
to the human capital challenges. Highly skilled scientists have been emigrating in
search of higher salaries and better standards of living in other countries. This brain-
drain reduces the stock of experts and induces occupational distortions.
g. We are going support individuals that have viable innovative ideas through
dedicated innovation desks that will be set at MoSTI and UIRI. Through this, individuals
will be directly assisted to transform their ideas into marketable products, or linked
to other entities with capacity to do the same. This intervention will also contribute
towards bridging the gap between research and the private sector with respect to
commercialisation of innovations and research outputs.
h. We are going to create a supportive regulatory environment for STEI. We will align
UNBS, UCC, URSB and other regulators better to encourage innovation and healthy
competition.
i. Support for R&D human capital development. We are going to continue investing
in education and skills development. Good secondary and tertiary education is
necessary to help absorb global knowledge and move the value chain to more
productive technologies, as China has done. Well-trained scientists and engineers
are the major input for more sophisticated R&D activities. We will maintain our strategy
of investing in tertiary education, with preference given to sciences, in pursuit of
growing innovative power. India succeeded in ICT-enabled exports because it has a
critical mass of educated and trained engineers. We have picked lessons from their
experience.
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8. TOURISM
8.1. INTRODUCTION
Over the years, NRM government has increasingly paid attention to the role of tourism in
the economic growth of Uganda. Besides the direct benefits, tourism has proved to be
an invaluable unifying force, bringing together people of different nationalities, religions,
regions and professions for the tourism experience.
The improvement of connectivity through development of tourism roads, the revival of the
national carrier, conservation of our heritage as well as the promotion and showcasing of
the potential have been identified as a priority. As a result, Uganda’s tourism has become
a powerful national socio-economic sector with its total contribution to GDP reaching
Ush8.36 trillion and tourism foreign exchange earnings expanding from US$834 million
in 2012 to US$1.6 billion in 2018, thus greatly supporting Uganda’s balance of payments
position.
Tourism has greatly contributed to inclusive growth and development of Uganda by

bringing numerous economic value and benefits, including the employment of more than
650,000 people and helping in building the country’s brand value, image and identity.
The sector’s wider multiplier effect has developed not only primary industries but also
secondary in agriculture, construction, manufacturing, transport and services.
Therefore, NRM government is going to continue with the commitment to expand the
benefits from tourism to trickle down to household level so as to consolidate the success
in providing employment, and diversified livelihood opportunities.
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8.2. PROGRESS
a. Uganda has been effectively promoted in the tourist source markets of United
Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, USA, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, China, Japan and
the Gulf States. NRM government deliberately increased the tourism marketing and
promotion budget of Uganda Tourism Board from Ush11 billion in FY2015/16 to Ush25
b. Resulting from the increased tourism marketing efforts, infrastructure improvements

as well as conservation of Uganda’s heritage, visits to Uganda’s national parks has
increased from 196,768 in FY2014/15 to 332,197 tourists in 2018/19. The direct financial
benefit is revenue generation increasing from Ush42 billion in FY2014/15 to Ush124
c. Additionally, the tourism foreign exchange earnings have expanded from US$834
million in 2012 to US$1.6 billion in FY2018/19, making tourism the highest foreign
exchange earner.
d. In an effort to ensure availability of adequately skilled Ugandans to work in tourism

sector, the Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI) in Jinja was upgraded.
So far, a 3-star application/training hotel has been constructed and the Government
reviewed and improved the national tourism and hospitality curriculum to improve
the quality and competitiveness of labour force in Uganda’s hospitality industry. Once
the second phase of upgrade is completed, it will become a centre of excellence
for tourism training.
e. The national airline was revived to increase direct connectivity of the country to the
major existing and upcoming markets of tourists to Uganda. The development and
expansion of Entebbe International Airport is being fast-tracked to expand it into a
regional hub.
f. During last term (2016-2021), NRM government focused on recovery of wildlife

populations and development. This was done through controlling poaching and
illegal wildlife trade, management of invasive species, conservation education and
awareness as well as human wildlife conflicts mitigation through:
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i. Electric fencing of 39.5km of Queen Elizabeth National Park conservation area

boundary.
ii. A total 210km of elephant trenches excavated along protected area boundary
and construction of crocodile exclusion enclosures (cages) in various spots to
mitigate crocodile attacks.
iii. Establishment of other protected area barriers like the installation of 1,679
beehives/apiary, tea and chilli growing at protected area boundaries to act as
barriers to stop animals invading community settlements.
iv. Continuous community awareness, training, sensitisation and revenue sharing

from the tourism proceeds.
g. Because of these deliberate conservation efforts, significant progress has been

registered on this front. For example, the elephant population has increased from only
2,000 in 1983 to the current 6,000; mountain gorillas in Bwindi alone have increased
from 298 in 1993 to over 459 by 2018 (50 groups out of 91 global groups) while buffaloes
have increased from 25,000 in 1982 to 37,054.
h. Given its significance, we embarked on the development of the Uganda Martyrs’

trail starting with infrastructure development at Namugongo Martyrs’ shrines as well
as the Martyrs’ trails from Mackay in Entebbe and Munyonyo to Namugongo. This is
now included in itineraries related to faith-based tourism experiences in Uganda.
i. In 2016, we committed to developing new tourism products as part of the tourism

diversification drive. National parks have been improved by animal translocations
and habituation of more gorilla groups as well as development of infrastructure such
as 1,165km of trail network and 90 bridges. Other products of focus have been the
Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), cultural, sports, and marine and agro-
tourism products.
j. NRM government mobilised citizens to explore their country through programmes

such as Tulambule (let’s explore) focused on encouraging Ugandans to visit and
experience the beauty of Uganda.
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8.3. WAY FORWARD

NRM will continue to prioritise the development of the tourism sector, aiming at increasing
annual foreign exchange receipts to US$2.5 billion in 2024/25, creating additional 500,000
jobs along the value chain and continuously increasing the competitiveness of Uganda’s
tourism.
Focus will be on the following:
a. Provide support to the sector to fast-track its recovery from the impacts of COVID-19
as well as adapt resilience measures for the sector’s growth and sustainability.
b. Implement a national tourism marketing strategy- domestic and international- as well

as building a positive and competitive image by rolling out the Pearl of Africa brand
in Africa and 12 overseas markets.
c. Increase the stock and quality of tourism infrastructure by upgrading 1,000km of

national tourism roads, complete development of Hoima International Airport and
expansion of Entebbe International Airport as well as construction and rehabilitation
of marine routes including 20 piers on Lake Victoria. Upgrading domestic airports such
as Arua, Gulu and Kasese will improve internal connectivity for tourists.
d. Enhance regulation, co-ordination and management of the tourism sector to facilitate

the development of accommodation and conference facilities of all types and sizes
as well as leisure attractions and facilities (including, restaurants, bars and cafes). In
addition, the establishment of international hotel chains as well as support the private
sector to provide low-cost accommodation facilities in protected areas and tourism
zones to increase the stock of tourist accommodation rooms by 15,000.
e. Working with the private sector, support tourism enterprises to promote investment in
the sector, inclusive community participation and attract successful 5 international
brands in the tourism value chain.
f. Build a Mahatma Gandhi International Convention Centre in Entebbe to boost the

capacity of the country to host larger international conferences and events.
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g. Promote conservation of natural and cultural heritage through upgrade of key wildlife
reserves like Katonga, Pian Upe and Semliki. Conserve natural central forest reserves
like Echuya, Budongo, Bugoma, Kalinzu and Maramagambo and create new national
parks and wildlife reserves for tourism. Establish 10 valley dams in water stressed
conservation areas; electric fencing 500km of the identified parts of protected area
boundary to mitigate human wildlife conflicts; as well as sustainable management
and maintenance of 22 wildlife protected areas.
h. Modernise UWEC to undertake conservation awareness and education around

protected areas and increase UWEC visits to 460,000 in FY2024/25 from 365,715 visitors
in FY2018/19. Regional UWEC satellite centre to be established in all major tourism
development areas starting with Mbale.
i. Conserve and develop Uganda’s cultural heritage through expansion and

modernisation of the National Museum. Establishment of two regional museums and
maintaining the integrity of 100 cultural heritage sites through boundary protection
and land titling as well as nomination of three sites to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
j. Develop and enhance the capacity of labour force along the tourism value chain
through undertaking on-job training for 20,000 workers as well as apprenticeship for
1,000 Ugandans.
k. Upgrade and transform the Uganda Wildlife Research Training Institute (UWRTI) and
Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI) into centres of excellence for
wildlife and tourism training and research.
l. Promote, improve, develop and diversify tourist attractions sites and products
including:
i. Equator Point at Kayabwe in Mpigi district.
ii. Education and health.
iii. Road along the Equator.
iv. Kagulu Hill and Bishop James Hannington sites in Busoga sub-region.
v. Kitagata, Sempaya, Panyimur, Kibiro, Rwagimba, Amoropii, Ihimba and Amuru hot
springs.
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vi. Mt. Elgon tourism circuit.

vii. The Source of the Nile will be developed into an iconic tourist resort area.
viii. Nyero rocks, Ngora district.
ix. Eclipse site, Pakwach district.
x. Fort Patiko, Gulu district.
xi. GKMA tourism circuit (bus tour, cultural palaces, Kabaka’s Lake, Kasubi tombs,
Makerere University).
xii. Stopover recreation facilities every 100km.
xiii. The Martyrs’ trail.
xiv. Profile Ugandan culinary tourism.
xv. Water-based (marine) tourism.
xvi. Mountaineering - cable cars and hiking facilities.
xvii. St. Gonzaga Gonza in Mbulamuti, Kamuli.
xviii. St. Matia Mulumba Kyebando in Kamuli.
200 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

DELIVERING EDUCATION,
HEALTH AND WATER
DELIVERING EDUCATION,
HEALTH AND WATER
N RM has over the years prioritised education, healthcare, water, sanitation and
hygiene. This is because a well-educated, skilled and healthy population is
essential in facilitating socio-economic transformation and personal wellbeing.
In this section of the manifesto, we describe the status and progress made as well
as what we intend to address over the next five years in regard to each of the five
ingredients of human capital development.
1. EDUCATION, SKILLS AND SPORTS

Education is a fundamental right. NRM knows that education presents the most
reliable opportunity for equality in society. Apart from equipping the citizenry with
skills required for productive and decent employment, education enables people to
live longer, happier and affluent lives.
Before NRM took power in 1986, education was a privilege for a few, which explains
why opportunities were concentrated in a few families and areas of the country. At
independence in 1962, for example, there were 28 Government-aided secondary
schools with a total enrolment of 1,991 students. The post-independence Governments
added a few secondary schools and by 1970, the secondary schools had increased
to 73 with a total enrolment of 29,540 students. This informed NRM to focus, first, on
access to education by taking schools near the people. Thereafter, we introduced
Universal Primary Education (UPE) in 1997, Universal Secondary Education (USE) for
O’level in 2007, Universal Post-O’level Education and Training (UPOLET) as well as
Universal A’level in 2012. This was to ensure that all the children access and attend
school free of charge.
202 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Parents are only required to provide stationery, meals and uniforms for the learners, as
Government pays teachers and provides an annual grant to schools to cater for every
child’s tuition and operational costs.
We have since made tremendous progress.

After achieving universal access to education, we are going to focus on the quality of
education. We shall ensure that children complete at least 11 years of school (P1-S4)
and acquire skills required for the job market.
1.1. PROGRESS
Because of UPE, which started in 1997, and USE in 2007, the literacy rate has improved
from 43% to 76%. Enrolment in primary and secondary schools is now at 10.7 million
pupils and 2 million students respectively.
Today, many who benefited from UPE have graduated from university and other
tertiary institutions. While some of them are unemployed, through our policies and
strategies such as the industrialisation agenda, import substitution, zonal industrial
hubs and Emyooga, these graduates will soon get jobs.
Therefore, we will continue working to grow the number of graduates at all levels.
While there are currently 10.7 million children in primary schools (seven years of study),
only 2 million are enrolled in secondary schools (six years of study), almost the same
length as primary education. This has mainly been attributed to the re-introduction
of school charges in Government-aided schools, causing children whose parents
cannot afford to drop out. The lack of school feeding has also compounded the
problem. We are going to sort this.
The Ministry of Local Government should get to every village assembly in all the 68,000
villages of Uganda to pass a resolution on this.
One of the excuses of school charges has been the recruitment of additional teachers
above those on the payroll, hence PTAs asking parents to contribute to their salaries.
To address this, we will recruit more teachers.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 203

EDUCATION INFRASTRUCTURE
NRM’s policy on education is to have one primary school per parish, a secondary
school per sub-county and a technical school per district. The Government has
continued to invest heavily in the education sector since the late 1990s when UPE
was launched. Currently, 90% of all parishes have a primary school, 80% of which are
Government-aided.
About 90% of all sub-counties have a secondary school, 67% of which are Government-
aided. All the regions of the country have a public university.
More classrooms, schools and universities have been built, and many old schools and
university infrastructure have been refurbished.
During the past five years, NRM government has expanded classroom infrastructure
in 138 primary schools and grants channelled to 23 primary schools in parishes that
did not have a primary school. In addition, 21 boarding primary schools have been
constructed in Karamoja.
In the same period, we have completed 12 secondary schools whose construction

was in progress by 2016 and built 117 seed secondary schools.
Furthermore, we took over 182 community secondary schools in sub-counties without

Government secondary schools. In total, 299 sub-counties that did not have secondary
schools now have. As such, more Ugandans are being educated at all levels than
ever before in the country’s history.
ENROLMENT
NRM inherited a Uganda with low enrolment in education. Over the years, enrolment
has grown across all education levels as summarised in the table below. This has
resulted in increased literacy rate from 70.2% in 2012 to 76% in 2018.
204 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

TABLE 23: GROWTH IN ENROLMENT

LEVEL 2016/17 2019/20 PERCENTAGE
EARLY CHILDHOOD 477,087 2,029,451 325%
EDUCATION Male: 236,248 Male: 1,008,500
Female: 240,839 Female 1,020,951
PRIMARY 8,264,317 10,766,994 Male: 30%
Male: 4,122,663 5,345,245 Female:
Female: 4,141,654 5,421,749
SECONDARY 1,452,287 1,992,315 36%
Male: 762,987 Male: 1,004,524
Female: 689,300 Female 987,791
POST-PRIMARY 126,878 129,599 2%
INSTITUTIONS Male: 68,250 Fe- Male: 70,248
male: 58,628 Female: 59,351
Source: Education fact sheet MoES
Since 2014, NRM has supported students to access higher education through the
student loan scheme, as shown in the table below:
TABLE 24: BENEFICIARIES OF STUDENT LOAN SCHEME

ACADEMIC 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 TOTAL
YEAR
MALE 935 863 922 1,060 2,174 1,245 7,199
FEMALE 266 410 403 388 769 606 2,842
TOTAL 1,201 1,273 1,325 1,448 2,943 1,851 10,041
SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
As indicated above, we introduced free universal primary and secondary

education, which enabled all children to go to school. Now that we have achieved
this, the conversation has shifted from lack of education to inadequate practical
skills and perceived mismatch between the skills acquired in formal education
and the jobs available.
NRM’s policy is to attract learners into Business, Technical and Vocational

Education Training (BTVET) and reskill artisans already in the job market.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 205

Presently, about 55% of the districts have a technical and vocational institution,
although they are grossly underutilised. This is due to parents’ attitudes undermining
blue-collar (apron) jobs, compounded by restrictive admission entry requirements.
NRM is going to deal with this underutilisation caused by entry requirements and
high tuition fees by exploring the option of admitting willing learners regardless of
previous qualifications and waiving of tuition for certificate BTVET courses.
We have already started reskilling through the State House programme of skilling
the girl child, regardless of previous qualification. So far, about 40,000 girls around
Kampala Capital City have been trained in various skills.
Six BTVET institutes are being upgraded to become centres of excellence, which
will offer internationally recognised certificates. They are:
(a) Uganda Technical College (UTC) Kichwamba for construction industry.
(b) Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba (UPIK) for oil and gas industry.
(c) UTC Elgon for building technology.
(d) Bukalasa Agricultural College for crop and animal husbandry.
(e) UTC Bushenyi for food processing and food manufacturing industry.
(f) UTC road, drainage and bridges construction. These will supervise and develop
respective vocational training institutions (VTIs) that handle lower levels of
training as shown in Table 25 on the next page.
206 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

TABLE 25: VOCATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTIONS

TO BE DEVELOPED
CENTRE OF AREA OF VTIS
S/N
EXCELLENCE FOCUS ATTACHED
Manufacturing Nyamitanga Technical Institute, Karera Technical
1. UTC Bushenyi
programmes Institute and Lake Katwe Technical Institute.
Road Kalongo Technical Institute, Kitgum Technical Institute

2. UTC Lira
construction and Ora Technical Institute.
Building
3. UTC Elgon Kaliro, Butaleja and Kasodo technical institutes.
technology
Bukalasa Agricultural Agricultural Ssese Farm Institute, Rwentanga Farm Institute and
4.
College programmes Kaberamaido Technical Institute.
Uganda Petroleum No VTIs attached because the designs of the two centres
5
Institute - Kigumba of excellence, which handle highly specialised oil and
Oil and gas gas programmes, did not provide for them. The oil and
programmes gas programmes demand very high standards, which
UTC-Kichwamba cannot be met by any VTI. The programmes for these
6. two institutions are internationally accredited.
SALARY ENHANCEMENT
NRM has progressively increased teachers’ pay along the different education levels
(primary to university). A starting salary for a primary school teacher is Ush499,684, a
secondary school arts teacher at the level of an education officer gets Ush960,228
while a science one takes home science Ush1,102,361. Salaries for lecturers at public
universities are shown in the table below:
TABLE 26: SALARIES TO BE ENHANCED

EMPLOYEE CATEGORY SALARY SCALE MONTHLY PAY (SH)
A. VICE CHANCELLOR AND DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR
1 Vice Chancellor M1 20,000,000
2 Deputy Vice Chancellor M2 17,400,000
B. TEACHING SCIENCE
1 Professor M3 15,600,000
2 Associate Professor M4 14,800,000
3 Senior Lecturer M5 9,004,203
4 Lecturer M61 8,174,143
5 Assistant Lecturer M62 6,687,323
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 207

6 Teaching Assistant M7 5,718,179

C. TEACHING NON-SCIENCE
1 Professor M3 15,600,000
2 Associate Professor M4 14,800,000
3 Senior Lecturer M5 8,296,772
4 Lecturer M61 7,609,299
5 Assistant lecturer M62 5,974,643
6 Teaching Assistant M7 4,705,540
D. NON-TEACHING SCIENTISTS
1 M3 M3 10,664,807
2 M4 M4 10,008,039
3 M5 M5 9,004,203
4 M61 M61 8,174,143
5 M62 M62 6,687,323
6 M7 M7 5,718,179
E. NON-TEACHING NON-SCIENTISTS
1 M3 M3 8,818,971
2 M4 M4 8,491,050
3 M5 M5 7,750,371
4 M61 M61 7,108,173
5 M62 M62 5,581,170
6 M7 M7 4,395,647
QUALITY OF EDUCATION
Primary education is a decentralised service under both the sub-county and district
local governments. If the political leaders at the sub-county and district levels play
their role, the performance of schools in their areas will improve. The resident district
commissioners (RDC), chief administrative officers (CAO), sub-county and parish
chiefs should contribute to the supervision of schools.
NRM government will continue implementing measures aimed at improving the quality
of education and addressing the factors causing pupils/students to drop out of school.
Specifically, besides the continued provision of adequate inputs, the Government
will focus on school-level support supervision, active parental participation, timetable
execution and granting autonomy to schools to make quick decisions and in turn hold
them accountable for results.
208 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

As NRM continues to improve family incomes through a number of actions and

programmes, parents/guardians’ capacity to provide for their children in schools will
improve and they will play their role.
SPORTS AND TALENT MANAGEMENT

The value of sports — including wellness of people and income generation — cannot
be overemphasised. NRM government has embarked on establishment of good
sports facilities as a strategy to promote sports.
Key among these is the construction of the National High Altitude Training Centre
in Kapchorwa. This project is now 86% complete and the facilities include a jogging
track, artificial turf, 6-lane running track, one hostel block, site roads and parking
space. Furthermore, Nakivubo Stadium is undergoing reconstruction under a public-
private partnership (PPP) arrangement estimated at US$50 million.
Overall, over the next five years, our focus will be on improving our world sports
ranking in niche sports like football, netball and athletics. This will be done through
the development and implementation of a framework for institutionalising talent
identification and nurturing, establishment of regional sports-focused schools and
academies, renovation and construction of appropriate standardised recreation
and sports infrastructure.
We will also support the development and implementation of professional sports club
structures to promote formal sports participation. Furthermore, we will support football
intermediaries in Uganda to promote the development of talented young footballers
to participate in leading leagues and tournaments at regional and international level.
1.2. WAY FORWARD

NRM will continue increasing access to education, improving its quality and producing
graduates who meet the job market demands.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 209

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

NRM will improve Early Childhood Development (ECD) through institutionalising training
for ECD caregivers at public PTCs and enforcing regulatory and quality assurance
system of ECD standards.
PRIMARY EDUCATION
a. Provision of instructional materials — Continue to increase the budget allocation
to textbooks and scholastic materials to reach a ratio of 5:1.
b. Increase community participation in the affairs of schools in their respective

areas and report problems like teacher absenteeism and cases of sending away
children — for not paying contributions agreed upon by the Parents’ and Teachers’
Associations (PTAs) — to resident district commissioners (RDCs). The UPE policy
guidelines only exempt urban schools, which are allowed to charge not more than
Ush10,400 as maintenance costs.
c. Education standards — We are going to roll out the Integrated Inspection ICT
biometric system in all public schools, which will enable access to real-time data
for quick decision-making. The system will be rolled out in all public primary schools
in phases as detailed below:
o Year 1 – 3,300 schools
d. We will continue progressively enhancing salaries and improving other living

conditions, particularly staff accommodation for teachers as the economy
improves.
e. Continue improving the quality of education by strengthening supervision.
f. We are going to introduce the school feeding programme. We are studying the
implementation mechanism. Apart from improving nutrition and health of our
children, this programme also has the potential to spur demand and create a
market for our agricultural produce.
210 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

SECONDARY EDUCATION
a. Construction of new secondary schools. We are going to construct 258 secondary

schools in sub-counties without a public secondary school. These new ones will
have 400-seater multipurpose halls, staff houses for six teachers, including the
head teacher, an ICT laboratory, a library, six classrooms and science labs.
b. Provision of instructional materials — We are going to improve the teacher/

scholastic material ratio in order to improve the quality of secondary education.
NRM will provide textbooks to both public and private secondary schools aiming
at reaching a teacher to book ratio of 1:3 for the lower secondary curriculum.
c. We shall complete the ongoing construction projects mentioned above.
d. We are going to progressively rehabilitate the traditionally historical schools.
e. We are going to operationalise new government and grant-aided schools by

recruiting secondary school teachers and providing science equipment (science
kits, reagents and ICT equipment).
f. Promote e-learning and computer literacy — This will enhance learning outcomes
and make education more resilient and mitigate classroom interruptions such as
COVID-19 lockdowns.
BUSINESS, TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION TRAINING (BTVET)
a. We are going to deal with underutilisation of BTVETs through relaxing entry

requirements so that willing learners, regardless of previous qualifications, are
eligible for admission. The language of instruction will be tailored to learners’
proficiency to give a chance to youth who are willing to acquire skills and
certificates.
b. Establish Nwoya Agro-processing Technical Institute and upgrade the six BTVET
institutions to centres of excellence.
c. Complete the construction of facilities in 21 BTVET Institutions, as follows:
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 211

l Arua School of Comprehensive Nursing and Midwifery, Arua district.
l Uganda Co-operative College, Tororo.
l Mulago School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kampala.
l Bamunanika Technical Institute, Luwero.
l Epel Memorial Technical Institute, Katakwi.
l Kiruhura Technical Institute.
l Bukooli Technical School, Bugiri.
l Moyo Technical Institute, Moyo.
l Dokolo Technical Institute, Dokolo.
l Katakwi Technical School.
l Wera Technical School, Amuria.
l Bbowa Community Polytechnic.
l Iyolwa Technical School, Tororo.
l Buseesa Technical School.
l Birembo War Memorial Technical Institute, Kikuube.
l Maumbe-Muhkwana Memorial Technical Institute, Mbale.
l St. James Mbigiti Memorial Technical Institute, Mayuge.
l Apac Technical School.
l Nagwere Technical School.
l Acaba Technical School.
l Kyarubingo Technical School.
212 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

A tailoring class at Rukungiri Technical School. Many have graduated and are now gainfully employed.
HIGHER EDUCATION
a. We are going to provide more scholarships and support students enrolling for
science, technology and engineering courses and other courses that are
marketable in the current local job market.
b. We will continue with the student loan scheme for those not directly sponsored by
the Government, but these are to be aligned with the scarce skills in the country.
c. We are going to set up a constituent college of Gulu University in Karamoja.
d. We are going to revamp two new regional universities. These are Busoga University
and Mountains of the Moon University, which the Government took over.
e. We are going to prioritise research and innovation funding to universities.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 213

PHYSICAL EDUCATION, SPORTS AND TALENT DEVELOPMENT

a. NRM is going to support construction of sports facilities similar to the high-altitude
athletics training centre in Teryet, Kapchorwa that is under construction.
b. We are going to design and implement a programme aimed at promoting and

protecting creative arts and culture industries (such as music, dance and drama)
for income generation. Set up facilities for young people to produce music and
movies free of charge. One example is the recording studio in Kampala. Others will
be set up in other cities across the country. We are going to enforce the copyright
protection law.
c. We are going to establish regional sports-focused schools/sports academies to

support early talent identification and development, and the training of requisite
human resources for the sports sub-sector.
d. We are going to support public private partnerships for funding of sports and
recreation.
e. We are going to maintain the existing facilities and construct appropriate standard
recreation and sports infrastructure at national, regional, local government and
school level in line with the country’s niche sports like football, netball, athletics
and boxing.
SPECIAL NEEDS EDUCATION

We shall progressively revamp two regional institutions for PWDs — Mbale Senior
Secondary School and Wakiso Senior Secondary School.
214 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

2. HEALTH
2.1 INTRODUCTION
In preparation for independence, the colonial Government created the Ministry of
Health (MoH) in 1961 out of the colonial department of the Ministry of Social Services.
At the time, Uganda had 27 hospitals and 1,288 staff for a population of 7 million.
After independence, another 22 new rural hospitals were built throughout Uganda,
bringing the total number of hospitals to 49. Today, Uganda has 168 hospitals.
The post-independence health system was designed around provision of curative

care with a doctor as the kingpin. With the economic decline and bad governance
that followed during the Idi Amin era, the health system deteriorated and health
facilities faced staff and drug shortages. By the 1980s and early 1990s, Uganda had
one of the worst healthcare systems in the world. Almost all major health indicators
such as average life expectancy, under-five mortality rate, infant mortality and
maternal mortality ratio were not good.
For example, maternal mortality ratio, measured by the number of deaths per 100,000
pregnant mothers was as high as 687 in 1986. We have since saved the lives of 351
mothers per 100,000 who were dying before NRM came to power. Maternal mortality
is now 336/100,000 live births.
In 1986, life expectancy was 48 years compared to 63.3 today (2020). Immunisation
coverage among children against killer diseases such as measles stood at just 27%.
When NRM took power, it drew an elaborate ten-year plan to rehabilitate the health
infrastructure. Donors had advised the Government that no major rehabilitation of the
health infrastructure be carried out. Our friends from the West who are less familiar with
our realities conditioned their help—when we needed it most — to user-fees claiming
“the poor are willing to pay for health services”. Due to the financial and budgetary
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 215

hardships at the time, we embraced these “reforms” despite the clear indication that
the health system model proposed was inappropriate. When the economy recovered
and were able to finance our budget, we reclaimed our plan.
NRM launched the Uganda National Expanded Programme on Immunisation (UNEPI).
Other programmes include the Maternal and Child Health and Family Planning and
the AIDS control, decentralisation of the health sector in 1997 and abolition of cost
sharing in accessing health services by the wanaichi.
Following these reforms, healthcare in Uganda became more accessible and

affordable. Ugandans became healthier and living longer lives, leading to the rapid
population growth we have now.
We are now remaining with six key related issues to deal with in our healthcare system:
a) Improving the quality of healthcare — In the past, we focused more on increasing

geographical access to health services. As a result, a recent national household
survey by UBOS (2016/17) shows about eight in every 10 Ugandans said it is now
easy for them to find the services they need at a health facility. The only concerns
raised were limited range of services, understaffing, long distance to a health
facility and services being expensive in private hospitals. Now that we have
achieved a lot in availing health services, over the next five years we are going to
focus more on efficiency gains and quality of healthcare provided. Research has
shown us that the quality of care is a major determinant of healthcare-seeking
behaviour among the service users.
b) More functionality of health facilities by having necessary equipment and personnel

to operate them. NRM’s policy on health relies, first, on primary healthcare and,
secondly, curative.
In primary healthcare, we emphasise the following: immunisation; screening;

maintaining and improving reproductive, maternal, neonatal, child and adolescent
health services. Other areas of focus are mental health, nutrition, hygiene, safe
water, using treated mosquito nets, sensitisation of the population on prevention of
216 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

communicable diseases such as HIV, Ebola and COVID-19.
c) We are going to wipe out the rampant corruption in the health system, particularly
theft of drugs and absenteeism of personnel. Absenteeism is estimated to result
in a loss of about Ush26 billion per year. We have dealt with procurement-related
corruption and direct drug theft at national level. However, the problem still exists
at health facility level. We are going to deal with this, as indicated in Section 2 -
Page 225-232.
d) Dealing with increased substance abuse, mainly narcotic drug (such as opium,
mairungi, and marijuana) and harmful use of alcohol which is affecting the health
and productivity of Ugandans. The UBOS survey (2016/17) found that alcohol
consumption and abuse of drugs had increased.
e) Dealing with non-communicable diseases, particularly diabetes, high blood

pressure, heart disease and cancer, which are on the rise. While acute, infectious,
communicable diseases still account for the largest disease burden (75%) — with
malaria, acute respiratory infections, and HIV/AIDS among the top 10 causes of
illness and death — the burden of NCDs is markedly increasing, posing a threat of
double epidemics of communicable and non-communicable diseases.
The burden of NCDs on an already strained health system is beginning to show. The
cost of managing NCDs is significantly higher than that of infectious diseases and at
times with sub-optimal outcomes leading to a regression in the quality of life of the
affected individuals.
f) Dealing with preventable health burdens such as teenage pregnancy, road

accidents and obesity. For instance, teenage pregnancy is a big problem at 24%
and accounts for 18% of the deliveries in the country. Of the 336 maternal deaths
per 100,000 live births, 40 are a result of child pregnancies. These young girls are
dying, yet they should be in school. This must stop. This is mainly a societal problem,
which should be done away with. Why should the LCs let children get married off
at a young age? If the parents wrongly encourage such marriages, the LCs should
report them to the authorities.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 217

2.2. PROGRESS
IMMUNISATION
Uganda is endemic for infectious but preventable diseases such as polio, leprosy,
tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough, severe diarrhoea due to rotavirus, severe
infections of pneumonia due to H. influenza and pneumococcal bacteria, measles
and rubella. These diseases were the main causes of preventable ill health and death,
especially among children. Until 1987, there was no viable programme against these
killer diseases.
Interventions against the occurrence of preventable diseases was the work of NGOs
and humanitarian partners who would respond to outbreaks with specific antigens.
This ad hoc approach to immunisation could only achieve immunisation coverage of
9% in 1980, with attendant continuous occurrence of diseases years on end.
The immunisation programme (UNEPI) was launched in 1987 to prevent the six
childhood killer diseases. At that time, the average immunisation coverage was a
paltry 34% and deficient of consistence and national outlook.
Today, over 90% of Ugandan children are vaccinated, not only against the six, but
13 diseases. It is not surprising that to date, of every 1,000 children born alive, 957 will
reach 1 year (only 43 may die) and at least 944 will reach five years of age (only 56
dies). These figures show a big reduction in mortality rates from 1988 where of every
1,000 babies born alive, only 902 would reach one year (98 would die), and only 823
would reach five years of age (177 would die).
These achievements reflect deliberate efforts by NRM to improve health and build the
health system. UNEPI was revitalised at the advent of decentralisation of government
in 1997. From 2000, the health services were decentralised to the districts and health
sub-districts. The health infrastructure was expanded to every administrative level
through HCIVs, HCIIIs, HCIIs and involvement of the wanainchi through local councils,
village health committees and health unit management committees.
The programme has grown stronger; we have good vaccine stocks for our target of
two million children annually. We have invested heavily in cold chain (refrigeration
218 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

capacity) countrywide and trained health workers in safe vaccine handling. Our
programmes are not only oriented against preventable diseases, but we are on
course to eradicate and eliminate a number of diseases in line with the global vaccine
action plan. Uganda eliminated all strains of indigenous wild polio virus in 1997. The
elimination of measles, rubella, maternal and neonatal tetanus as well as yellow fever
is also in range.
HEALTH INDICATORS
Significant improvements have been registered in the health sector.
Between FY2012/13 and FY2016/17, infant mortality went down from 54 per 1,000 live
births to 43 per 1,000, maternal mortality ratio decreased from 438 per 100,000 live
births to 336 per 100,000, and life expectancy has increased from 54.5 to 63.3 years
having come from 48 years in 1986. This is a result of investments in the health sector
over the last 10 years.
During this period, the number of health facilities significantly increased particularly at
the lower local government level in line with the preventive approach to healthcare
in Uganda.
TABLE 27: KEY HEALTH INDICATORS
NO. INDICATOR PER ANNUM 2016 UDHS
1 Maternal mortality ratio 336/100,000
2 Infant mortality rate 43/1,000
3 Neonatal mortality Rate 27/1,000
4 Under five mortality rate 64/1,000
5 Total fertility rate 5.4
6 Adolescent pregnancy rate 24%
7 Children below 5 years who are stunted 29%
8 ART coverage 86%
9 Measles coverage under 1 year 88%
10 DPT3 coverage 96%
11 Malaria cases per 1,000 persons per year 14
12 Population living within 5km of a health facility 86%
13 No of doctors per 10,000 people 1.7
14 No of nurses and midwives per 10,000 people 12.4
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 219

HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE
On the curative side, NRM’s policy is to have health services easily accessible by the
population. In this regard, our focus is to have:
a. A Health Centre III (HCIII) with a maternity ward and a laboratory in every sub-
county or town council or division in municipalities.
b. A Health Centre IV (HCIV) in a constituency with a theatre with 2 resident doctors,

in addition to a maternity ward and a laboratory as in the Health Centre III.
c. A general hospital serves a catchment population of 500,000, a regional referral

hospital serves a region and a national referral hospital serves the entire nation.
These provide tertiary and specialised care.
The health infrastructure network currently consists of 6,937 health facilities of which
3,133 (45.16%) are Government-owned, 2,976 (42%) are private for profit, and
remainder are private not-for profit.
Uganda now has five national referral hospitals, 14 regional referral hospitals, 137
general hospitals (a total of 156 hospitals compared to 49 in 1986), 226 HCIVs, 1,755
HCIIIs, 3,178 HCIIs and 1,601 clinics.
Now 86% of Ugandans live within 5km of a health facility. Mulago and Butabika hospitals
are steadily becoming national referral hospitals that handle mainly cases referred to
them by the regional referral hospitals, as it should be. With this development, these
two national referral hospitals will now begin focusing on provision of specialised
medical care, saving the country the much-needed foreign exchange for other
development priorities.
Construction of Health Centre IIIs
As indicated above, our goal is to ensure that every sub-county, town council and
municipal division has a Health Centre III. In this regard, the following has been
achieved:
220 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

a. 124 Health Centre IIs were upgraded to HCIIIs in FY2018/19.

b. 62 Health Centre IIs were upgraded in FY2019/20.
c. 64 Health Centre IIs are being upgraded in different sub-counties, town councils
and municipal divisions.
d. Another 81 Health Centre IIs will be upgraded in FY2021/22 and FY2022/23.
Health Centre IVs

The following 10 HCIIIs were upgraded to HCIVs beginning FY2019/20;
a. Karita in Amudat.
b. Nabiganda in Butaleja.
c. Nyamirami in Kasese.
d. Toroma in Katakwi.
e. Maracha in Maracha.
f. Rwebisengo in Ntoroko.
g. Rukungiri in Rukungiri.
h. Kajjansi in Wakiso.
i. Warr in Zombo.
j. Kawala in KCCA.
Renovation and expansion of the following 25 Health Centre IVs was completed in
2017. The works included construction of 10 theatres, 16 maternity wards and water
supply, including a 40,000-litre reservoir for each unit.
The Health Centre IVs are: Aboke, Aduku, Atiak, Budaka, Budondo, Bugono, Buvuma,
Buyinja, Bwijanga, Kabuyanda, Kassanda, Kibuku, Kiganda, Kikamulo, Kitwe, Kiyunga,
Kyantungo, Mwera, Mwizi, Nankoma, Ngoma, Ntenjeru-Kojja, Obongi, Padibe,
Pakwach and Rubare.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 221

Arua Regional Referral Hospital
Hospitals
The following has been achieved:
a. Construction and equipment of Mulago 450-bed Specialised Women and

Neonatal Hospital was completed and commissioned in October 2018.
b. Construction of Kawempe and Kiruddu hospitals completed in 2018 and have
been designated as national referral hospitals to decongest Mulago National
Referral Hospital.
c. The rehabilitation and equipping of Lower Mulago Hospital is ongoing and the
current progress of work is at 98% including additional works considered to
enhance service delivery and upgrading to a super-specialised hospital.
d. Rehabilitation and equipping of Kawolo Hospital was completed and is due for
commissioning.
e. Renovation and expansion of Kayunga and Yumbe general hospitals was
completed. The two hospitals will be fully equipped by December 2020.
222 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

f. Construction of regional hospital in Entebbe for paediatric surgery was completed

and is ready for commissioning. The hospital will provide services to the nation
and the region.
g. Works started on the renovation and expansion of Lira, Arua and Gulu regional
referral hospitals.
h. The following new hospitals have been established by upgrading Health Centre
IVs: Amuria, Kaberamaido, Koboko, Rukunyu (Kamwenge), Kasana (Luwero) and
Mukono.
i. In partnership with international partners, NRM government has embarked on
the construction of a state-of-the-art International Specialised Hospital (ISHU) at
Lubowa in Wakiso. Construction commenced on 10th June 2019 and is expected
to be completed by June, 2021. ISHU is a specialised referral, tertiary treatment,
research, and teaching hospital, which will provide treatment to patients who
have been travelling out of the country to seek specialised medical care. In 2017,
it was estimated that Ugandans spent about US$186 million on medical treatment
abroad. This hospital will also act as an ‘export’ by treating patients from the
region, hence promoting medical tourism.
Construction of Houses for Health Workers in Hard-to-Reach Areas

Starting with Karamoja sub-region, construction of 69 housing units for health workers
is at various stages of completion. This is in Kaabong, Kotido, Abim, Napak, Moroto,
Amudat and Nakapiriprit. Other hard-to-reach areas will be considered.
Oxygen Plants
Oxygen plants with adequate capacity to supply lower level facilities were installed
in 13 regional referral hospitals: Naguru in Kampala, Arua, Gulu, Hoima, Soroti, Lira,
Moroto, Mbale, Mubende, Kabale, Jinja, Fort Portal and Masaka. This has reduced
pressure on national referral hospitals.
An additional two oxygen plants have been procured and installed at Mulago National
Referral Hospital and Entebbe Regional Referral Hospital to increase capacity during
the COVID-19 response.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 223

The New Mulago Specialised Women and Neonatal Hospital in Kampala
President Museveni speaks to a new mother while inspecting the facilities of the new Mulago Specialised Women
and Neonatal Hospital in Kampala on 8th October 2018.
224 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

2.3. WAY FORWARD

HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE
a. Renovate or construct theaters and wards in 37 HCIVs without functional theatres.

b. Construct at least 500 staff houses for health workers at HCIIIs and HCIVs.
c. Construct and equip five regional equipment maintenance workshops.
d. Increase access to specialised healthcare services by construction, rehabilitation
and equipping of hospitals and super specialised/centres of excellence in line
with the National Health Policy. These will include:
i. Upgrading the physical and technological infrastructure at the Uganda Heart

Institute.
ii. Construction of regional cancer centres in Arua, Gulu, Jinja and Mbarara.
iii. Construction of the Orthopaedic and Traumatology Institute at Mulago.
iv. Completion of Lubowa International Specialised Hospital.
v. Renovation and expansion of Soroti Regional Referral Hospital.
vi. Upgrading of Kayunga and Yumbe General Hospitals to regional referral status.
vii. Expansion and upgrading of Kapchorwa General Hospital to a regional referral

hospital.
viii. Upgrading of Gulu, Mbale and Mbarara regional referral hospitals to national
referral status in a phased manner.
ix. Equipping of six regional referral hospitals: Gulu, Mbale, Hoima, Bombo, Kawolo
and Moroto with CT scans and equipping Mbale, Gulu and Mbarara with MRIs.
x. Completion of Bukwo and Buwenge general hospitals.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 225

Dr. Byarugaba Baterana, the Executive Director of Mulago Hospital Kampala, hands over certificates of recovery to
a representative of the COVID-19 patients
xi. Construction of a general hospital in Wakiso district and Lubaga division,

Kampala.
xii. Renovation and equipping of 15 general hospitals—Abim, Apac, Atutur, Bugiri,

Bundibugyo, Busolwe, Gombe, Kagadi, Kambuga, Kitagata, Kitgum, Kyenjojo,
Lyantonde, Pallisa and Masindi.
xiii. Upgrading of Kisenyi, Kotido and Kyegegwa HCIVs to general hospitals.
xiv. Upgrading of Kira, Nabweru, Bweyogerere, Goma, Kawaala, Kiswa, Namuwongo,

Komamboga and Kisugu HCIIIs to HCIVs to cater for the high population in
Metropolitan Kampala; and Koome HCIII for the island population.
xv. Increase access to primary healthcare services by completing the upgrading

and equipping of the remaining 41 HCIIs of the 331 HCIIs earmarked for upgrade
to HCIIIs.
xvi. Construct and equip 236 HCIIIs in sub-counties without any health facility.
226 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

EXPAND THE NATIONAL MEDICAL STORES (NMS)

Completion and commissioning state-of-the-art NMS warehouse at Kajjansi, in Wakiso
district. This is ongoing and was 87% complete in March 2020. All equipment is on site
awaiting installation. This will increase the pallet positions from the current 8,000 at
Entebbe warehouse to 30,000. It will cost Ush70 billion, co-funded by Government,
Global Fund and GAVI.
NATIONAL DRUG AUTHORITY (NDA) FAKE DRUGS REGULATION

Through the NDA, we have instituted controls at all levels of the medicine supply chain to
ensure that only good and cost-effective medicines are on the market.
Human Resource for Health

a. Over the next five years, NRM is going to focus on enrolling and facilitating
critical specialists and supportive staff needed to improve the functionality of
our health system. These include: physiotherapists, ICU nurses, anaesthetists and
technologists. In addition, we are going to fill the staffing gap at local government
level (primary healthcare) with anaesthetic officers, dispensers and pharmacy
staff. For the newly renovated and equipped Mulago National Referral Hospital,
we will recruit staff required to run the hospital and remunerate them adequately
in accordance with their qualifications. The same will apply to the regional referral
hospitals.
b. Provide scholarships for training specialised and super specialised cadres for
Mulago and regional hospitals.
c. In the past, one of the challenges in the health sector was the welfare of the
health workers. Progressively, under our policy of paying scientists better, we have
increased the salaries of health workers. Since the economy is on course to transform
and generate more revenue, we will continue to enhance health workers’ salaries
and other benefits.
d. Improve primary healthcare services. The local governments will be facilitated to

recruit skilled health workers to achieve at least 85% of the current staffing levels.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 227

Priority will be accorded to critical personnel like district health teams, doctors,
anaesthetists, theatre staff and pharmacy staff.
Availability of medical and health supplies

NRM will deal with the problem of stealing drugs through better supervision at sub-
county level and scaling up of the electronic Logistics Management Information System.
Digitising the Logistics Management Information System will improve accountability

because it will offer a seamless connection between NMS and health facilities.
In addition, it will afford more visibility of the quantification, ordering, delivery and
utilisation of Essential Medicines and Health Supplies (EMHS) in the public sector. It will
be easier to conduct regular multi-stakeholder supervision, inspection and auditing of
medicines. We will increase community awareness on embossment of Government
medicines to check theft of medicines and discourage pilferage. We are also going
to provide a toll-free line for reporting drug theft. This will provide anonymity for whistle
blowers.
Health Information Management
NRM recognises the potential of information and communications technology (ICT)

in transforming healthcare delivery by enabling information access and supporting
healthcare operations management and decision-making.
Application of ICT in the healthcare system will also drive health workforce productivity.
We are going to implement the e-health Policy and Strategy to guide the use of ICT
in supporting health sector transformation. In addition, we are going to establish and
scale up a national Electronic Medical Record System (EMRS) in all public and private
hospitals, HCIVs and high-volume HCIIIs with access to the internet.
In particular, we are going to stop drug theft, absenteeism and extortion in all government
health facilities. To address these vices, we are going to roll out an Integrated Hospital
Information Management System (IHIMS) developed by a Ugandan team led by Dr.
Silver Kiyimba to revolutionalise the health service delivery. This system has already
been installed and is working well in some hospitals like Naguru, Mbarara, Moroto,
228 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Mbale and Mityana. This system is helping us solve the above mentioned corruption-
related problems and improve health service delivery. First, it will provide paperless
patient care and management of records, which will not only save government Ush9
billion spent annually on health-related stationery, but will also provide mobile patient
information accessible by the entire health system. Second, it will improve medical
supplies management and efficient delivery to patients. NRM is going to eliminate
the leakages in medical supplies and theft of drugs by tracking medical supplies from
NMS to the patient. Third, the system will track attendance of medical personnel and
quality of services provided by recording real time attendance, patients attended to
and medical service rendered.
Disease Prevention and Management
NRM government will ensure that all strategies under the health sector are geared towards
improving population health, safety and management. We will focus on reduction of the
burden of preventable diseases and conditions including malnutrition; maternal, neonatal
and under-five deaths as well as sexual and reproductive health services. The health
system and its support mechanisms will be strengthened, specifically:
a. Health education to avoid preventable diseases through sensitisation on immunisation,

sanitation and hygiene, good nutrition, exercising, road safety, responsible use of medical
drugs. Sex education will continue to be promoted to deal with teenage pregnancy.
b. Prevention and control of NCDs. NRM is going to:

i. Scale up services for screening of cancers of the cervix, breast and prostate at the
earliest opportunity at both private and public health centres.
ii. Through public health education encourage those above 40 years to regularly screen
for NCDs like diabetes and heart disease.
iii. Immunise young girls against cancer of the cervix.
iv. Expand treatment centres for NCDs like cancer and heart conditions at regional
hospitals.
v. Revive physical exercise days in schools, institutions and workplaces. We will introduce
national fitness days.
vi. Create public recreation (fitness and health) areas, particularly in urban areas.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 229

vii. Through public health educate and advise the population on nutrition.
c. Prevention and control of communicable diseases (CDs)

i. HIV/AIDs. NRM is going to:
l Support evidence-based interventions to ensure that all Ugandans access
comprehensive HIV/AIDS care services.
l Review and implement policies and strategies for comprehensive HIV prevention,
care and treatment.
ii. Tuberculosis (TB).
TB Strategic Interventions
l Increase general community awareness on TB and targeted awareness for high-risk
populations (men, school children, prisoners, refugees, tobacco users and diabetics)
through community resource persons, mass media, artistes and mobile tech.
l Functionalise community systems/structures at all levels for TB service delivery.
l Increase awareness on zoonotic TB.
l Mainstream TB in ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).
l Build capacity of health workers in contact tracing, TB screening, TB preventive
therapy and diagnosis including clinical diagnosis and multi-drug resistant TB
management.
l Increase the availability of TB medicines.
l Improve coverage and access to chest x-ray services.
l Increase availability of quality laboratory TB diagnostic services.
l Improve the laboratory infrastructure at HC III for proper implementation of TB
diagnostic services.
l Initiate and strengthen TB screening and prevention among high risk populations in
public spaces; markets, taxi parks and churches.
l Build capacity of private health facilities for TB diagnostic services.
l Adopt use of technology for monitoring and TB treatment.
l Increase access to multi-drug resistant treatment centres.
iii. Acute respiratory tract infections.
iv. Leprosy
v. Malaria — We will ensure that the population is protected against malaria through
appropriate vector control and chemo-prevention measures. This will include:
l Carrying out mass intermittent preventive treatment for malaria countrywide during
the National Malaria Days twice a year.
230 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

l Regions with a high malaria burden and high transmission rate will be targeted for
indoor residual spraying at least once a year.
l Larviciding for urban cities and the cattle corridor.
l Promote use of insecticide paints through private sector initiatives.
l Countrywide distribution of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets to achieve universal
coverage.
d. Emerging diseases and outbreaks
i. Strengthen the integrated disease surveillance and response system to ensure early
detection and control of the outbreaks and pandemics like COVID-19.
l Establish permanent Port Health Services at 24 points of entry (2 high-volume, 11

medium and 11 low-volume).
e. Reduce maternal, neonatal and infant mortality as follows:

i. NRM government will ensure that every sub-county has a functional Health Centre III
with qualified staff and a well-equipped maternity ward. Increase access to family
planning services, antenatal care, basic obstetric care services and postnatal care
services.
ii. Reduce the high maternal deaths due to haemorrhage and other causes like ruptured
uterus. NRM government will install blood fridges to store blood in 89 Health Centre
IVs, thus increasing services provided at this level. It is estimated that currently 8,400
mothers are being referred to regional referral hospitals because the HCIVs lack the
capacity to perform obstetric care due to the lack of blood supplies. Installation
of these blood fridges will allow these patients to receive on site care saving lives,
reducing unnecessary referrals, saving time and effort of specialised medical staff at
the regional hospitals, and reducing transportation costs.
iii. NRM government is going to fully operationalise theatres at HCIVs to provide
surgical care. In doing so, we will have an additional 50 medical officers, 89
anesthetic officers, 124 anaesthetic assistants and 51 theatre assistants. It is worth
noting that Government has already trained these professional staff under Uganda
Reproductive Maternal and Child Health Improvement Project and bonded them
for recruitment in the public service.
iv. Blood banks will be established in Arua, Moroto and Masaka regional referral hospitals
to increase the availability of safe blood at the Health Centre IVs and hospitals. This
is expected to cost Ush15 billion. The country currently has only five blood banks:
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 231

Nakasero in Kampala, Gulu, Fort Portal, Mbale and Mbarara and six blood collection
and distribution centres in Soroti, Jinja, Hoima, Rukungiri, Kabale and Lira. The blood
collection centres are linked to respective blood banks in those regions.
v. Establish a co-ordinated ambulance system with 14 medical call and dispatch
centres with one ambulance command centre per region. Currently, there are 181
ambulances against the need of 340, hence a deficit of 149. Each ambulance
costs about Ush280 million.
vi. Equip and functionalise the neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in all 15 regional
referral hospitals, 54 general hospitals and 222 high dependency units in the Health
Centre IVs. This can reduce perinatal mortality in the country by 50%.
vii. Reduce the reproductive services burden by increasing reproductive education

to prevent teenage pregnancies as per the Sexual and Reproductive Health and
Rights Policy, as well as promote the multi-sectoral approach to empower girls.
f. Scale up immunisation efforts by conducting routine immunisation services provided at

all health facilities and outreaches conducted in all districts.
g. Improve the functionality of the health system to deliver quality and affordable
preventive, promotive, curative and palliative services.
h. Improve healthcare waste management. The Ministry of Health is going to establish
regional healthcare waste management centres.
Support Research and Development
a. Develop the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) into a world-class centre of
excellence in health research.
b. Support development of innovations such as incubators for locally developed medical
technology.
c. Support research and commercialisation of traditional complementary medicine.
d. Support linkages between academia, research and practice.
Oxygen Plants
Scale up oxygen supply to lower health units.
Dealing with Counterfeit Medicines

Controls exist at all levels of the medicine supply chain to ensure that only good and cost-
effective medicines are on the market. We are going to eradicate counterfeits.
232 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

3. WATER, SANITATION AND HYGIENE

Water, sanitation and hygiene are essential for life and health, and are a fundamental
human right for every child and adult. Easy access to clean water sources liberates
households as it frees up time to do other productive work.
Uganda is exceptionally endowed with water resources, covering 43,938sq.km (18%)

of its 241,038sq.km total land area. It is NRM’s duty to exploit this endowment for the
wellbeing of all Ugandans.
Therefore, NRM is committed to extending clean and safe water to every LC1/village,
ultimately providing water to every household. NRM’s priority is to increase safe water
supply coverage and equity in the entire country.
In 1986, only 10% (1 in 10) of the population in the rural areas had access to clean safe
water. We have since increased access in rural areas (a radius of 1km) to 70% (7 in 10)
and urban coverage to 80% (8 in 10).
Out of 68,731 villages in Uganda, 48,338 villages have access to clean water. NRM
is going to continue focusing on construction of a safe clean water source in every
village for the remaining unserved villages while at the same time implementing other
planned interventions to increase safe water coverage in the country.
3.1. PROGRESS
Piped water main network system increased to 1,200 in urban areas and over
2,000 gravity flow systems by 2019, up from 37 and over 42 respectively in 1986.
In the last four years, over 720,000 new customers, including industrial/institutional/
commercial customers were connected to the water supply network and the following
are some of the projects to increase access to clean water:
a. New large gravity flow schemes were completed in: Lirima – Phase II (Manafwa),
Bukwo – Phase II (Bukwo), Bududa-Nabweya - Phase II (Bududa), Bukedea,
Upper Sipi (Sironko, Kween, Kapchorwa, Bulambuli) and Ntoroko (Ntoroko).
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 233

b. Construction work is ongoing on the following gravity flow schemes:

i. Namrwodho – Phase II (Nebbi), Kyanvuma, Lambala in Iganga district; Buseta,
Kasasira, Kameke, in Pallisa district; Kapala and Kidetok in Serere district.
ii. Lirima – Phase II (Manafwa) at 90%: Bukedea (Sironko, Kween, Kapchorwa,
Bulambuli) at 90%, Ntoroko (Ntoroko) at 98% and Orom (Kitgum) at 51%.
c. Completed construction of piped water systems in 26 towns in Bugongi (Sheema),
Bukakata (Masaka), Bukwo, Buliisa, Dokolo, Kagoma (Jinja), Kaliro, Kalongo (Agago),
Ocapa and Kyere (Serere), Luuka, Midigo (Yumbe), Ntungamo, Kyalubungu
(Isingiro), Nyeihanga (Mbarara), Okoro (Arua), Ovujo (Maracha), Pajule (Pader),
Sanga (Kiruhura), Kasagama, Kinuuka (Lyantonde), Namagera (Jinja), Nyahuka
(Bundibugyo), Iziru (Jinja), Busede-Bugobya (Jinja) and Kapelebyong.
d. Ongoing construction of 11 piped water supply systems, namely Kagadi, Nazigo,
Kassanda, Bulegeni, Kacheri-Lokona, Ofua, Bugobya, Bulambuli, Namayingo and
Olilim, while 13 towns have been designed to completion and five towns are still
under design. Nyakashaka is under procurement and three towns — Mukura, Baale
and Wobulenzi not yet designed.
e. The following piped water supply systems to small towns were constructed: Amudat,
Kumi-Nyero-Ngora, Namwendwa, Pabbo, Buyende, Pacego, Pallisa, Rukungiri
Municipality, Namagera, Namukora, Nyeihanga, Kambuga, Namwendwa,
Namwiwa and Bulopa. Another three - Lwemiyaga, Kiwoko and Binyinyi — designs
were completed and construction is ongoing.
3.2. WAY FORWARD

Rural Water Supply and Sanitation
a. Complete construction work on the following gravity flow schemes:
i. Kyanvuma, Lambala (Iganga), Buseta, Kasasira, Kameke (Pallisa) and Kapala,
Kidetok (Serere).
ii. Lirima – Phase II (Manafwa): Bukedea (Sironko, Kween, Kapchorwa, Bulambuli),
Ntoroko (Ntoroko) and Orom (Kitgum).
234 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

b. Construct and extend piped water supply (taps), deep boreholes, shallow wells,
protected springs to all unserved villages. Specifically, we are going to:
i. Construct new large gravity flow schemes in: Siabona Phase 1 (Bugiri–
Namayingo); Nyamugasani Phase I (Kasese); Bitsya (Buhweju), Bwambara -
Bugangari (Rukungiri); Ngoma – Wakyato (Nakaseke); Ogili (Agago) and Potika
(Lamwo).
ii. Complete and expand, under a phased approach, five water systems in
Nyabuhikye and Kikyenkye (Ibanda), Shuuku and Masyoro (Sheema), Bukedea
Phase II (Sironko, Kween, Kapchorwa, Bulambuli), Kabuyanda water supply
(Isingiro), Rwebisengo – Kanaara Phase II (Ntoroko), Orom Phase II (Kitgum/
Agago/Pader) water systems.
iii. Drill 5,000 environmentally-friendly and sustainable hand-powered boreholes

countrywide, taking into account earth crust drainage informed by science.
iv. Install 2,060 environmentally friendly and sustainable solar powered boreholes
to increase safe water coverage in the least served villages.
v. Rehabilitate old rural piped water supply schemes.
vi. Establish a supply chain for spare parts and outlets for borehole infrastructure to
ensure regular maintenance of boreholes under supervision of the parish chief
as described in the parish model.
c. We will carry out science-driven geological surveys to map underground water
sources.
d. Promote rainwater harvesting by reducing the cost of acquiring necessary
equipment such as water tanks. This water will be used for household consumption
and irrigation purposes.
e. Prioritise construction of bulk water supply systems in water-stressed areas.

Specifically, we are going to:
i. Develop large diameter wells in water stressed parts of the country covering
Karamoja sub-region, the low-lying, dry expanses of Isingiro, Ntungamo, Kiruhura,
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 235

Yumbe, Zombo, Koboko, Moyo, Kiboga, Kyankwanzi, Nakaseke, Nakasongola,

Rakai, Buyende and Kaliro districts.
ii. Bulk transfer of pumped water to water-stressed areas in Isingiro, Kiruhura/Kazo,
West Nile, Kyoga basin, Nkanka (Kisoro) and Muko (Rubanda).
f. Promote appropriate sanitation and hygiene technologies such as bio-digestors
across the country, taking into consideration vulnerable persons and those living
in areas within difficult soil formations as well as transient and fishing communities.
g. Invest in the construction of sanitation facilities on highways, institutions (including

schools and health centres) and public places.
h. Support continuous Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) for improved sanitation

and hygiene to prevent diseases.
i. Improve functionality, sustainability and resilience of water supply systems in rural

areas to provide safe water all-year-round and reduce the number of people
unable to access safe water.
Small Towns Water Supply and Sanitation
NRM is going to increase overall access to safe and affordable water supply in urban
areas, currently standing at 78% with an ultimate aim of 100% coverage. The key
interventions will include the following:
a. Invest in construction of piped water supply in small towns and growth centres. In
particular, we shall provide safe, reliable water supplies and improved sanitation
facilities to all districts and sub-county headquarters.
b. Construct improved public sanitation facilities in public places and selected

institutions, including cluster faecal sludge management facilities in small towns
and rural growth centres.
The measures above will be implemented in small towns in the following areas: Busia,
Butaleja, Busolwe, Budaka, Kadama, Tirinyi, Kibuku, Kyegegwa, Mpara, Ruyonza,
Namasale, Kaliro, Namungalwe, Kanoni, Ngando, Bulo, Nsabwe, Ngomanene, Kiriri,
236 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Bukandula, Rugaga, Kabulasoke, Butiti, Kifampa, Kisozi, Kajumiro, Maddu, Rakai,

Nsaro, Rumbugu, Birabago, Buyamba, Rwanda-Kooki, Dwaniro, Byakabanda,
Kamukala, Kibbale, Bugadde, Kityerera, Busakira, Kuluuba, Kayunga, Busaana,
Kamuli, Buikwe, Dokolo, Kapchorwa, Bundibugyo, Kyenjojo, Katooke, Nakasongola,
Namayumba-Busunju, Kangulumira-Nazigo, Kabimbiri-Kasawo, Igayaza-Kikwaya,
Kassanda, Lwengo, Bugadde-Idudi, Serere area, Soroti-Amuria-Orungo Corner,
Ngenge-Chapskunya-Kiriki, Bugweri and Bwondah, Yumbe, Nwoya, Lamwo, Zombo,
Amuru, Alebtong, Kole, Omoro, Maracha, Nyamarebe-Rushango-Buremba, Burungi-
Engari-Nkungu-Rwemikona, Rubanda, Rukiga, Karenga, Kapedo, Abim, Nyakwai,
Alerek, Karita, Kalapata, Kaabong, Kawalakol, Nabilatuk, Namalu, Napak, Kangole,
Kakingol, Nadiket, Moroto, Kotido, Nakapelimoru, Kathile and Loregai.
Large Towns Water Supply and Sewerage

NRM government strategy is to ensure universal access to safe water supply, which
entail:
(a) Improving urban water supply and sewerage coverage.
(b) All cities, towns, trading centres, wards, cells and zones to get clean safe water
(at least one source per village).
(c) Water and sewerage services for the planned industrial parks. The specific
interventions under National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) will
include:
i. Completion of Kampala Water Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation Project (KW
LVWATSAN), which involves:
l Construction of the Katosi Drinking Water Treatment Plant with capacity to produce
160 million litres per day and Katosi-Kampala transmission mains.
l Restructuring of the network in project areas of Kampala Metropolitan.
l Extension of water supply and sanitation services in informal settlements with

installation of 2,600 communal stand pipes.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 237

ii. Development of water and sanitation infrastructure for Mbarara, Masaka and
Isingiro (southwestern cluster project).
iii. Construction and rehabilitation of water supply and sanitation infrastructure

in Mbale City and the six rural growth centres of Busolwe, Butaleja, Kadama,
Budaka, Kibuku and Tirinyi.
iv. Construction of Karuma water works, Gulu-Karuma transmission mains, supplying

water from Karuma through Kamdini, Minakulu, Bobi-Palenga and Koro Abili.
v. Improve and upgrade water supply and sanitation in; Adjumani urban area,
including support to refugees and refugee hosting communities, Kapeeka in
Nakaseke, Sembabule and Wakiso.
vi. Expansion and development of sewage treatment system in Gaba and Mukono
sub-catchments in the Kampala Metropolitan.
vii. Work on water and sanitation projects in Hoima, Masindi, Kasese, Fort Portal,
Lira, Jinja/Njeru, Lugazi and Tororo.
238 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

ENSURING JUSTICE
AND EQUITY
ENSURING JUSTICE AND EQUITY
N RM is a political party whose foundation is built on justice, equity and fairness.

In this section of the manifesto, we show the progress made as well as what we
are going to do in the coming five years to strengthen our achievements in law and
order, public sector management and fight against corruption, affirmative action as
well as land fragmentation.
1. LAW AND ORDER
1.1. INTRODUCTION
Few people need reminders of Uganda’s dark past in which rogue state operatives
systematically undermined the supremacy of the law. The justice system suffered
from poorly resourced institutions, competing for resources and operating in silos.
The laws were selectively applied where it served to benefit those with political
power and economic muscle.
The 1967 Constitution lacked consensus and legitimacy, which rendered its
ownership by the people virtually impossible. People’s participation in its making
was omitted as the Parliament whose electoral mandate had expired turned itself
into a Constituent Assembly that debated and promulgated the Constitution.
Given the political atmosphere at the time — the abrogation of the 1962
Constitution, removal of President Sir Edward Mutesa and storming of his Lubiri
(Palace) by Government soldiers — the enjoyment of human rights and civil liberties
by all citizens was impossible. Abuses like property grabbing, arbitrary arrests and
240 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

detentions, extra-judicial killing and state-sponsored domestic terrorism were the

hallmark of the times.
In 1995, NRM ensured the promulgation of a new consensus Constitution and

empowered it through the strengthening of impartial legal systems and enabling
frameworks that protected the human rights and civil liberties of all citizens. The
Constitution was dully debated and passed by an elected Constituent Assembly,
confirming people’s participation.
The Constitution created key agencies fundamental to the achievement of

a robust legal and justice framework, including the Uganda Human Rights
Commission and the Law Reform Commission. In addition, it also provides a broad
and comprehensive Bill of Rights, which forms basis for the pursuit of justice for all.
NRM’s pro-people governance approach has deepened its commitment to

grassroots systems founded on justice and peace that universally recognise,
respect and protect individual’s human rights and civil liberties.
1.2. PROGRESS
a. Uganda now has an independent judiciary that decides various disputes basing
on the principle that no one is above the law, not even those in the Government.
b. NRM government has passed several enabling pieces of legislation and

policies aimed at creating a just and fair society focused on enabling Ugandans
as individuals and as a nation to live in harmony.
c. Trust of the people in Justice Law and Order (JLO) institutions has improved
and now stands at 59%. The index of judicial independence is at 3.42 in 2018,
from 3.41 in 2017 on a scale of 1-6. The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC)
maintained an ‘A’ status in the ranking.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 241

d. The case backlog has reduced from 21% in 2017 to 18% in 2018/19 despite the
13% growth in case registration. Over 56,000 backlogged cases were disposed of.
The growth in backlog has, therefore, been addressed. However, what is needed
now is to enhance sector efforts to dispose of the existing caseload.
As a result of the increased case disposal, there has been a reduction in pre-trial
detainees from 51.4% to 46.5% in 2019 and for the first time convicts outnumber
prisoners on remand.
e. Automation of case management systems increased to 39.02% in 2019 from

12% in 2017.
f. We have strengthened the judiciary as the third arm of the State by enacting
the Administration of the Judiciary Act 2020 to enhance it independence.
1.3. WAY FORWARD

NRM shall continue to entrench the rule of law and ensure stability and security
for all Ugandans. Other key undertakings will be:
a. Learning from COVID-19, exploit processes for remote online adjudication of

cases.
b. Instil zero tolerance to corruption in the judicial system by introducing systems

and periodic performance monitoring of judicial officers.
c. Under the reform of business processes, develop sector-wide integration

for information sharing starting with critical institutions such as National
Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) and the frontline JLOS service
institutions.
d. Complete automation of the processes for issuing work permits, visas, special
242 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

passes and student passes as well as upgrade to a full border management

system.
e. Roll out the Computerised Prosecution Case Management System (PROCAMIS)

to an additional 20 stations.
f. Under transitional justice, the National Transitional Justice Policy (NTJP) was
considered and approved and the implementation plan is being finalised. This
provides the framework for complete rehabilitation and reconciliation of post-
conflict communities creating greater peace and stability that is conducive
for economic growth.
g. In addition to the transitional justice programme, the Government is

working towards creating linkages between the formal and informal justice
mechanisms. The informal justice systems are widely respected and provide
much needed support and relief to the formal justice system by handling
family and customary disputes as provided for by the law.
h. Implementation of newly enacted commercial laws remains a key priority.

Therefore, we have drafted and gazetted implementing regulations for 90%
of the enacted commercial laws and the process to cover all is ongoing.
i. Criminal cases of a commercial nature should be handled by commercial

court as a way of reducing cost of doing business by fast tracking commercial
legal processes.
j. Improve access to justice, we are going to recruit more judicial officers to fill
the vacant positions in the judiciary.
k. Increase the number of magesterial courts in the country.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 243

2. PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGEMENT

AND FIGHTING CORRUPTION
2.1. REFORMING THE PUBLIC SECTOR FOR SERVICE DELIVERY

INTRODUCTION
NRM government acknowledges the role of the state in guiding and facilitating
development through increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of the public sector
in response to the needs of the citizens and the private sector. It also understands that
the efficiency of civil servants in delivering their mandate to the people successfully
needs urgent strengthening.
Duplication of interventions and unco-ordinated efforts and low accountability

among civil servants are some of the issues we will tackle.
The causal issues range from poor accountability systems and undue focus on
processes rather than results, inefficient Government systems and processes,
ineffective and inadequate communication and feedback mechanisms. These need
to be addressed to realise a prosperous nation.
PROGRESS
As a key milestone in addressing Government’s inefficiency, NRM government

introduced the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) 2015. Through this Act,
budgeting for results has significantly improved with the introduction of Performance
Based Budgeting. Nevertheless, budget alignment with plans requires strengthening.
Expenditure that is more stringent has been realised in many local governments and
MDAs.
244 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

WAY FORWARD
NRM government will promote the holistic approach to solving people’s challenges
through the programme-based approach where Government stakeholders are
brought together under a programme to realise a given outcome. This will increase
co-ordination and break the silo approach that has currently suffocated results.
Furthermore, it will enhance Government synergies and remove duplications to the
realisation of results. In other words, our new measure of performance is not the
procured goods (hospitals, roads, schools), but the improved livelihoods that we
realise through these procured goods.
NRM is going to:

a. Restructure and strengthen the Government’s systems to synergise efforts,
remove duplications and align under a programme approach.
b. Improve monitoring and evaluation of Government performance through
standard and auxiliary units such as Office of the Prime Minister, Auditor General
and APEX platform.
c. Further strengthen the national statistical system that reaches for accurate and
informative data presentation to aid planning and inform results.
d. Undertake real-time monitoring of project and budget spending across all
MDAs.
e. Upgrade public sector training to improve relevance and impact.
2.2. FIGHTING CORRUPTION

In order to fight corruption, NRM created institutions and passed requisite laws.
The institutions are:
a. The office of the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) whose objective is to hold
public officers accountable.
b. Office of the Auditor General and Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) that
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 245

existed but lacked the independence to investigate corruption cases.
Before 1986, the Office of the Auditor General was a small department under the
Ministry of Finance. The Auditor General could easily be transferred within the civil
service. Similarly, the DPP was a department within the Ministry of Justice. Like the
Auditor General, the DPP could easily be transferred within the civil service. As a
result of this weak foundation, they could not freely investigate their bosses and
prosecute them.
NRM, with determination to fight corruption gave these offices both independence
and security of tenure. The IGG, Auditor General and the DPP who are instrumental
in the fight against corruption are appointed by the President with the approval of
Parliament. With security of tenure, they cannot be easily removed from office and
they cannot be directed by any authority.
Both the IGG and Auditor General report to Parliament, a departure from the past
when the latter was reporting to the Executive. Parliament through the public
accounts committee, which is chaired by the opposition holds the Executive
accountable, which is the effective and reliable check. This is deliberate and
involves opposition in the fight against corruption. NRM has also passed many laws
aimed at fighting graft.
We have eliminated overt corruption like stealing property at road blocks, extra-
judicial killing and poaching in national parks.
However, covert corruption has become a big problem in Uganda, which we

are determined to defeat. Covert corruption can be broadly classified into two
categories: corruption of need and corruption of greed. Corruption of need is
fuelled by the struggle to meet basic needs. This will be tackled and defeated
differently from that of greed which persists despite the good pay that officials
earn. Corruption of need can be traced to the historical injustices in the public pay
structure that has wide disparities. Some public servants earn more than enough to
meet their basic needs, while others in the lower rank are barely getting by.
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To defeat the corruption of need, NRM will carry out a pay reform and continue
with salary enhancements to remove injustices and address the compression ratio
in salary scales. This will enable the salary of lower-level cadres to meet their basic
needs. We are already progressively dealing with this, starting with teachers, soldiers
and medical officers.
We are going to defeat corruption of greed by strengthening the investigative and

prosecution machinery so that corruption cases are thoroughly probed, tried and
put before court for adjudication.
In December 2018, President Yoweri Museveni launched the State House Anti-
Corruption Unit to supplement efforts of the various anti-corruption agencies. This
unit has a 24-hour rapid response line to receive and respond to corruption-related
complaints from the public.
By November 2019, 60,000 complaints had been received. Of these, 8,000 were
concluded, 4,000 are still under investigation while 35,000 were referred to line
Government departments.
A total of 111 have been charged in court with 79 public officials interdicted.
Through ICT, NRM will minimise human-to-human contact in the delivery of services.
This has already started in the issuance of passports and driving licences, thereby
eliminating bribery. This will be rolled out in the provision of other services and earn
confidence in NRM’s delivery of services.
Furthermore, timelines within which certain services are delivered will be set. For
instance, when one applies for a land title, it should be clearly stated when the
applicant will receive it. This will apply to issuance of all Government licences.
The current state of affairs where one waits indefinitely for a Government service
creates opportunities for errant officials to ask for bribes.
We will also close the gaps within the procurement law. For instance, why do we
award tenders that are over and above the recommendations of Government
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 247

consultants who are hired to advise on what is to be done and the cost? The current
law also allows the contractor — while on site — to vary the cost up to 15% of the
original contract. This is many times abused. We should sort this out.
NRM will use technology to track the attendance of teachers, health workers and
the distribution of medicines and drugs in Government health units in order to curb
absenteeism and theft.
NRM introduced barazas (district and sub-county accountability foras) to increase

participation of the citizens in ensuring service delivery and accountability. The
barazas empower communities with information about public service delivery
programmes in their localities.
Some 155 barazas were conducted in districts and sub-counties by March 2020.
Through the parish model, the barazas will be continued to enhance accountability.
Corruption will be further fought by improvement in supervision of Government

officials using both administrative and political methods including elected councils
and Parliament. For instance, the issue of the stealing of drugs from health centres
will be fought administratively. There is a Gombolola Internal Security Officer
commonly known as (GISO) in every sub-county who will be required to fight this.
There is also the sub-county chief and the CAO at the district. These can use the
administrative machinery to fight corruption in the delivery of services. They can
investigate and take administrative action including sacking a civil servant through
the District Service Commission. At the political level, the councillors both at sub-
county and district can expose corrupt civil servants in their areas of jurisdiction. For
instance, the sub-county or the district council can address the problems of theft
of drugs in their sub-county as well as tackling the problem of poor service delivery
in education, water and feeder roads.
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3. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
3.1. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION FOR WAR-RAVAGED AREAS

Some of the areas still showing high poverty levels are those ravaged by war. NRM
under point number six of the Ten-Point Programme promised “restoration and
improvement of social services and rehabilitation of the war-ravaged areas”. We
have had affirmative action in the Luwero Triangle, Rwenzori and northern Uganda
including Teso and Karamoja sub-regions and some districts in Bukedi sub-region.
These areas suffered socio-economic losses, breakdown in infrastructure during
the wars resulting in the rise in poverty.
In addition to war-ravaged areas, Busoga and Bunyoro also have high poverty
levels. Consequently, we added Bunyoro sub-region to the areas in need of
affirmative action. NRM has over the years rehabilitated the social infrastructure
in these areas. What is remaining is to invest in improving livelihoods of the people
to reduce poverty levels.
PROGRESS
Over the years, working with development partners, NRM has cumulatively
implemented the following programmes in northern Uganda region.
The Northern Uganda Reconstruction Project (NURP) in 1992-97, Peace Recovery

and Development Plan (PRDP), which started in 2007, Northern Uganda Social
Action Fund (NUSAF) which started in 2003 and Karamoja Integrated Development
Programme (KIDP). In total, Ush3.8 trillion has been spent on resettlement,
infrastructure, education, water, health, roads and administrative units. As a
result, the poverty figures of 2016/17 (UNHS) show that poverty levels in northern
Uganda were at 35.7%, having dropped from 43.8% in 2012/13 and 73.5% in 1992.
Furthermore, the Rwenzori-Agri-LED programme was launched in FY2018/19 to
support livelihood in the Rwenzori sub-region.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 249

WAY FORWARD
The socio-economic infrastructure (schools, markets, health centres, roads) that

were destroyed by war in northern Uganda have been rehabilitated and new
ones built. What remains to be done is raising income levels in northern Uganda,
Bukedi, Busoga, Teso and Karamoja sub-regions through affirmative action.
In order to ameliorate poverty in northern Uganda, having restored the socio-
economic infrastructure, our focus under PRDP4 will be on improving household
incomes. We will promote growing of crops, which have a value chain from
production to processing and marketing. This is what Government has already
done with the setting up of Atiak Sugar Factory, where Government supported
about 7,000 households in Amuru and Lamwo districts to plant sugarcane, which
will be sold to the factory.
Through OWC support and other programmes, people will be empowered
to produce for a factory. We have already invested and continue to invest in
the road infrastructure to promote development in northern Uganda, Teso and
Karamoja sub-regions.
We are going to compensate war-affected households in Teso, Lango, Acholi
and West Nile veterans for their lost cattle. For this we have provided Ush30 billion
this financial year.
3.2. SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS
NRM recognises previously marginalised social groups, seeks to uplift them and
address their issues. This is why we started Youth Councils, Women Councils, Elderly
Councils and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) Councils from the village to national
level.
To uplift these previously marginalised social groups and address their issues, we
started youth councils, women councils, elderly councils and PWD councils from the
village to the national level.
250 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

This affirmative action was deliberate to ensure that these social groups are
represented at all centres of decision-making. Socio-economically, NRM continues
to implement programmes like free education, skilling, immunisation and provision of
water to benefit mainly the youth and women.
NRM introduced the youth livelihood and women entrepreneurship programmes

to help the youth and women respectively to engage in income-generating
activities.
YOUTH
As already pointed out under Section 2.2.6, Page 71 of this manifesto, in the
last four years, Ush160.2 billion has been spent under the Youth Livelihood
Programme, which has benefitted 20,159 youth-led projects.
WOMEN
Under the Women Entrepreneurship Fund, Ush106 billion has been spent.
ELDERLY
NRM has rolled out Social Assistance Grant for the Elderly (SAGE) to assist them
earn a monthly income for a living. Under NAADS, we are going to provide families
of the elderly with agricultural inputs and technologies to support their livelihood.
Under Emyooga programme, we will support SACCOs for the elderly. All these
interventions will be implemented per homestead under the parish model.
PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

NRM recognises that disability is not inability. PWDs are also represented in sub-
county councils, district councils and Parliament. NRM has also ensured that the
fundamental right to quality education is availed to PWDs at all levels.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 251

WAY FORWARD
a. NRM will continue with the representation of the formerly marginalised groups
in decision-making at different levels.
b. With improvement in the economy, we will increase the budget for the youth,
women, PWD and elderly councils.
c. We have introduced Emyooga and industrial hubs for the youth and all
different groups, including women. The OWC programmes will also cover
youth, women, elderly and PWDs.
d. Continue with SAGE that benefits the elderly and consider lowering the age
of beneficiaries from 80 years. With time, the age will be lowered.
e. Fund the operations of the youth, women, PWDs and the elderly council.
f. Give support to vulnerable PWDs to enable them lead a dignified basic life.
The support will target persons with multiple disabilities, children and women.
g. Strengthen juvenile justice system.
h. Continue with the Youth Livelihood Programme Phase 2.
252 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

4. DEALING WITH LAND ISSUES:

OWNERSHIP, ACCESS, USE, SECURITY
AND FRAGMENTATION

INTRODUCTION
NRM recognises that land is the biggest factor of production for most Ugandans and as
such must have significant securities and guarantees for use, access and ownership.
Where farmers do not have vested interest, there is no incentive for them to adopt
modern technology in farming, use fertilisers to boost productivity or protect the
environment.
In addition, farmers cannot use land as collateral to access finance. Therefore, NRM
believes in promoting good land governance through the protection of land rights.
This will be a safeguard against unlawful land evictions and promote sustainable
good land use practices.
Land issues in Uganda, especially in Buganda can be traced to the Buganda

Agreement of 1900 that was signed between the leaders of Buganda and the colonial
government. Before this agreement, the Kabaka of Buganda owned land as a trustee
of the dwellers on the land.
In the rest of present-day Uganda, the situation was not different. In Acholi for instance,
up to now, under clan system, land is owned by the clan on behalf of its members.
With the 1900 Buganda Agreement, land in Buganda was divided between crown
land, under the control of the colonial government and mailo land owned by the
Kabaka, the chiefs and other prominent leaders at the time.
It is important to note that the land, which was given out as mailo was already
occupied by the local people who by the stroke of a pen became tenants and were
required to pay a tax (obusuulu) to the mailo landowner.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 253

This created two classes of people; the mailo owner and the kibanja tenant. When
the mailo land was surveyed and titled, the owner got a certificate while the kibanja
owner did not possess a deed of ownership.
The tenancy rights of bibanja owners were formalised in 1928, when the colonial
Government sensing that the continued increase of the land tax by the landlord was
causing unrest, passed the Busuulu and Envujjo Law (1928). The law created new
relations between landlords and tenants by reducing the arbitrariness in tax levy and
insecurity in those relations. It denied the landlords the power to increase the tax at
will and the tenants gained security to use the land.
This dual ownership of land in Buganda, with a limited Busuulu, stayed on until the 1975
Land Decree that put all the land in Uganda under the central government. Thus,
mailo landowners lost their land without compensation.
In the 1995 Constitution, NRM balanced the interests of the landlords and the tenants
by returning land to the landlords but also recognised the legal interests of the bibanja
owners. We recognised six categories of bibanja owners:
(a) The one that was given kibanja by the landlord or the agent.
(b) The one who was on that kibanja in 1983 or before – whom we termed the bona-
fide occupant.
(c) The one who bought from one of (‘a’ and ‘b’) above.
(d) The one who inherited from one of (b) and (c) above.
(e) The one that was first to settle on public land, subject to a 12-year occupation
rule.
(f) Those that were settled by the Government like the ones we settled in Kisiita
(Kakumiro district) and Kanyaryeru (Kiruhura district).
All these six categories are lawful tenants and, therefore, nobody should evict them.
We also agreed that the bibanja owners pay a nominal/reasonable rent, not the
market rate. We further agreed to capitalise the Land Fund annually to compensate
the landlords so that this inequitable arrangement is amicably settled.
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Through this fund, we have compensated several absentee landlords in Bugangaizi

(in Bunyoro) and other parts of Uganda.
The above legal position notwithstanding, the common land problems that have
persisted include:
a. Eviction of lawful tenants on mailo land in disregard of the Constitution and the
1998 Land Act as amended.
b. In settling with tenants, some landlords issue titles for less acreage to tenants. For
instance, if a kibanja owner has settled on 10 acres, the landlord takes six acres
and gives a title for only four acres to the kibanja owner. This is an injustice to the
bibanja owners.
c. District land boards allocating land that is already occupied by customary tenants
who are recognised by the Constitution.
d. Untitled land, creating a bottleneck for entry of such land into formal land markets
and useful collateral in financial institutions.
e. Multiple titling of land by unscrupulous land dealers “bafeere” in connivance with
corrupt officers of the land registry.
f. Corruption in the court system involving judicial officers entertaining cases where
people on the land are not served notice and they lose the case in absentia.
g. Traditional cultural practices that deny women land rights, in particular do not
bequeath land to women.
h. Land fragmentation. See Section 4.1 - Page 258.
PROGRESS
a. A total of 22 Ministry Zonal Offices (MZOs), to take services closer to the people,
were established and are fully functioning in Kampala (KCCA) and the following
districts: Mukono, Masaka, Mityana, Luwero, Mpigi, Wakiso (Wakiso-Busiro and
Wakiso-Kyadondo), Jinja, Mbale, Lira, Tororo, Soroti and Moroto. Others are Gulu,
Arua, Kabarole, Mbarara, Masindi, Kibaale, Kabale, and Rukungiri.
b. All freeholds, leaseholds and mailo titles have been digitalised and entered into
the Land Information System.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 255

c. Incorporated a total of 606 Communal Land Associations (CLAs) in the districts of

Kaabong, Kotido, Moroto, Napak, Amudat, Kakumiro, Masindi, Kikuube, Buliisa,
Agago, Pader, Nwoya, Mubende, Kayunga. The total number of customary
landowners registered under CLAs is 3,602,321.
d. Issued 20,000 Certificates of Customary Ownership (CCOs) in the districts of

Kasese, Nwoya, Pader, Soroti, Katakwi, Butaleja, Adjumani and Kabale.
e. Mapped a total of 20,883 customary land parcels covering an acreage of

16,236.3ha for a total number of 20,294 households of which females constitute
36% and males 64%.
f. Issued Certificates of Occupancy for bibanja holders on mailo land in the three
districts of Mityana, Mubende and Kassanda.
g. A total of 17,265 freehold titles are being processed for landowners in Oyam,
Mbarara, Ibanda and Kiruhura, under the Systematic Land Adjudication and
Certification (SLAAC).
h. Over 250 CCOs have been demarcated in Buliisa awaiting display of community
maps and thereafter be submitted to the District Land Board for issuance of titles.
i. The amount of money to the Land Fund has increased from Ush42 billion to Ush92.4
billion.
j. So far, 236,036 acres of land have been acquired. The land will be handed to
lawful and bona fide occupants to regularise their land rights.
k. A total of 300 land titles were processed and issued to lawful and bona fide
occupants in Kibaale and 300 land titles to tenants in Nakaseke district.
WAY FORWARD
Aware of the highlighted land problems, we constituted a commission of inquiry into

land issues in Uganda led by Lady Justice Catherine Bamugemereire. The commission
has presented its report to Government. The report will be studied to guide NRM
government in solving land problems in Uganda. The report notwithstanding, NRM will
do the following:
256 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026
a. Increase the Land Fund to solve the historical dual ownership of land in Buganda,
Bunyoro, Ankole, Tooro and Bugisu (Kakungulu and Ndawula families). We will use
the principle of willing buyer willing seller to pay off the landlords and give titles to
the bibanja owners. This will also include addressing the unfairness experienced by
those whose land was reduced by the landlords.
b. Cancel land titles that were issued by district land boards on land that was already
occupied by customary land tenants. This will include canceling titles that were
given on wetlands.
c. Support customary tenants register their land in accordance with the law. NRM
government is already supporting issuance of Certificate of Customary Ownership
(CCO) to customary landowners in West Nile, Acholi, Teso and Lango sub-regions.
d. Fight corruption in the court system.
e. Clean up the land registry and cancel multiple titles on the same land and remain
with the genuine ones. Where the fraudulent landowner evicted people wrongly,
he/she will be made to compensate them.
f. Support the traditional/cultural/religious leaders in resolving customary land

conflicts where possible, by applying alternative dispute resolution mechanism.
g. Fight the “entrepreneurs of land conflicts” for bibanja people to live in peace.
h. Roll out the public portals of the Land Information System to facilitate customer
searches.
i. Integrate Land Information System with other key Government agencies, namely,
NIRA, NITA-U, URA, and URSB.
j. Scale up systematic demarcation in more districts for both customary and freehold
land.
k. Complete review of land regulations.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 257

4.1. DEALING WITH LAND FRAGMENTATION

Land in Uganda is undergoing fragmentation at a rate that has accelerated
degradation and constrained agricultural development.
Fragmentation of the already small land-holdings into tiny parcels is detrimental

to land conservation and economic gain. It constrains large-scale production
and discourages farmers from adoption of agricultural innovations.
Land which was rich, fertile and productive has been destroyed by bad human
settlement, mainly caused by inheritance (kulamira; kusikira). A family with four
acres of land in one generation, parcels it into half an acre per family because
it is shared by eight children (mainly males) upon the death of their father. What
the four acres can do, half an acre cannot do.
Hence, the fragmented land can no longer be meaningfully and profitably utilised
to grow cotton, tobacco, sugarcane, maize and rear indigenous cattle as these
require larger pieces of land.
Most households in Uganda in subsistence agriculture have over generations

subdivided their land into very small parcels; as small as half an acre. Such
smallholder farmers cannot profitably engage in a lot of enterprises that we are
promoting — coffee, fruits and food crops.
Land fragmentation must be stopped, if Uganda is to prosper and create wealth.
In most of Kiruhura district, as well as areas in the cattle corridor (Kabula,

Ssembabule, Gomba, Kiboga, Kyankwanzi, Nakaseke, Masindi), people have
shunned land fragmentation because of the timely sensitisation since 1966 by a
young Museveni.
The present NRM campaign is: “Do not divide the land , but form legally binding
family companies where all members are directors and decide on what uniform
258 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

and maximally profitable activities should be done on that land in order to make
both the family and country richer”.
Fortunately, northern Uganda, especially Acholi and some parts of Lango, is still
relatively free of land fragmentation. The area should be protected from this.
WAY FORWARD
NRM will intensify sensitisation of modern inheritance practices to discourage

division of land and promote sharing of proceeds. Inheritance, therefore, should
only be by shares (emigabo). With shares, you divide what comes from land,
but the land itself or even the property (cattle, goats and houses) should not
be divided. Like he did in 1966 in Kiruhura district, President Museveni launched
the campaign of creating model family companies where the inheritors (basic),
inherit by shares (emigabo) and not by the fragmentation of the land or the
property. This will create sustainably rich families, generation after generation,
instead of the present phenomenon where families become poor again after
one generation. We shall over the next five years support families to register their
family land for joint economic activities.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 259

PROTECTING LIFE
AND PROPERTY
PROTECTING LIFE AND PROPERTY
I n this section of the manifesto, we demonstrate the progress made in securing

Ugandans, Africans as well as their legitimately accumulated wealth and property.
It also highlights our commitment to building a Government of the people, by the
people and for the people.
Finally, we report the progress made in restoring our environment and proper
management of our natural resources, such that this generation leaves for the next a
stock of quality of life assets no less than those, which it inherited.
1. SECURITY
1.1. INTRODUCTION
One of NRM’s strengths is securing lives and property of Ugandans and other Africans.
Before capturing power in 1986, the prevalence of insecurity in Uganda and parts of
other African countries was high. Ugandans and many other Africans were insecure,
living in fear.
An average Ugandan would hastily hide whenever they met soldiers or policemen.
We democratised the country right from the local level, politicised and disciplined the
army and police, and made them interact with the people.
Below is an account of what makes NRM a vanguard of security, stability, certainty

and continuity.
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1.2. THE UPDF

NRM has restored the security of person, property and borders. From 1966 when
Government troops on orders of then Prime Minister Dr. Apollo Milton Obote attacked
the Lubiri and the President of Uganda who was also the Kabaka of Buganda, was
overthrown and ended up in exile, Uganda was insecure.
The above incident was preceded by the abrogation of the Constitution and Obote
declared himself President of Uganda.
In 1971, the then head of the army, Amin Dada, overthrew Obote and Amin became
President.
During Amin’s era (1971-1979), so many innocent Ugandans were killed in cold blood.
Prominent among them was the Chief Justice, the late Ben Kiwanuka. He was bundled
in a car boot from the High Court in Kampala and he was never seen alive till today.
These extra-judicial killings made it difficult to live in Uganda, and as a result, many
educated Ugandans fled to exile.
Amin was overthrown in 1979 by a force led by Tanzania People’s Defence Force with
two Ugandans two groups, Kikosi Malumu and Front for National Salvation (FRONASA)
fighting alongside.
With Amin out of power, elections were hurriedly organised in 1980. Those elections
were not bound to solve Uganda’s problems because they were rigged. As there was
no rule of law, the rigged elections could not be resolved in court, hence, the need
to organise the people to remove the Government led by Obote.
The Obote regime 1981-1985, was also characterised by insecurity of persons and
property. In July 1985, Obote was overthrown for a second time by the army. The
military junta named Gen. Tito Okello president.
After 1986, there were a lot of security challenges caused by several armed groups
including:
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 263

a. Alice Lakwena’s Holy Spirit Movement,

b. Joseph Kony’s Lord’s Resistance Army,
c. Jamil Mukulu’s Allied Democratic Front (ADF),
d. Force Obote Back Again (FOBA)
e. Cattle-rustlers in Karamoja armed with modern guns and, more recently, killers
with bijambiya (machetes).
The NRA/UPDF overcame all the above challenges because NRM created a
capable state with a capable and professional army and other security forces.
The UPDF is built on the correct ideology of being a pro-people army, which
professionally responds to challenges and ensures that security prevails. We have
instilled the values of discipline, and respect for humanity in the army. Anyone who
mishandles wananchi is promptly reprimanded.
NRM has continued to build the UPDF through training and equipping it. As a result,
the whole of Uganda is secure and peaceful.
The UPDF is built as a national army through a deliberate policy of recruitment quotas
per district. All tribes of Uganda are represented in the UPDF unlike the colonial and
the post-colonial armies that were recruited from only one part of the country.
Through the ideology of Pan-Africanism, NRM has deployed the UPDF to help in the
pacification of other African countries including Somalia. We have also worked
closely with our brothers and sisters in South Sudan to improve peace. This is important
for our trade with them.
While it continues to execute its mandate, the army has in peace time engaged in
economic transformation to deal with economic security. It has contributed to:
a. Non-war activities including the recent participation in the fight against locusts.
b. Through Luwero Industries have modified a fire fighting vehicle used to fight locusts.
264 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

c. Had the Engineering Brigade trained in railway works and has been instrumental
in the rehabilitation of the Meter Gauge Railway and continue to do so. When we
start on the SGR, they will play a role.
d. National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) is also engaging in other businesses like

road construction and soon their pharmaceutical factory will start manufacturing
medicines. In addition, in a joint venture, NEC will soon start making textiles and
leather products (shoes) at their new factory at Buikwe Industrial Park. Over the
next five years, NEC will focus on industrial research and development (R&D) in
addition to the activities it is carrying out now.
1.3. THE POLICE

Since 1986, NRM government has been consistent in placing an unwavering focus on
strengthening the foundation components of Uganda’s national security.
Through capacity building in the Uganda Police Force, NRM has reinforced state
guarantees on the security of person and property. This correlates with increase in
the respect of protection of human rights and freedoms as well as the existence of a
vibrant civil society.
NRM has improved the capacity of the Uganda Police in numbers, quality and equipment.
In 1986 the Police had diminished in numbers but after NRM’s deliberate efforts, it has now
grown from 3,000 to 46,000. The police-to-person ratio is now at 1:800 against a target
of 1:500. The quality of the Police service has improved after deliberate emphasis on
recruitment of better educated persons including university graduates.
In order to curb the recent wave of criminality, the Government installed closed circuit
television cameras (CCTV) in the cities and along highways. These cameras have already
helped in netting some criminals.
The Police through training will be putting emphasis on creating a pro-people force that is
well trained to handle those in conflict with the law. We will continue equipping the Police
especially in forensic investigations to improve on the fight against crime. We need to
continue improving on the welfare of both the Police and the UPDF.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 265

CCTV Cameras have helped the Police to curb crime
President Museveni visits the CCTV monitoring centre at Nateete Police Station in Kampala on 9th October 2018
266 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

2. DEMOCRACY
Democracy is one of the four principles of NRM. Uganda is now a free country. NRM,
starting in 1994 re-enfranchised Ugandans when they voted in the Constituent
Assembly elections to elect delegates who debated and promulgated the
Constitution in 1995.
Ugandans had last voted in a general election in April 1962 before independence
on 9th October 1962.
The next election was held in 1980, after Amin was overthrown, some 18 years
after attaining independence.
NRM has consolidated democracy by giving power to the people to freely elect
their leaders in regular elections at local government, Parliament and Presidential
level every five years since 1996.
Even in face of COVID-19, the election cycle could not be compromised because
democracy is entrenched in Uganda. Because of their centrality to determine
who leads the country, the election has to take place amidst the pandemic.
In order to learn from lessons of the past (in the 1980 elections that were rigged)
NRM introduced electoral reforms, which include:
a. Voting secretly but in the open as opposed to voting in a booth.
b. Using one ballot box, one ballot paper with all the candidates’ photographs.
c. Counting the votes and declaring the results at the polling station
immediately after voting, each candidate being represented by two polling
agents who are required to sign the result Declaration Forms (DR forms). If
they do not agree with the results, they are required to state in writing the
reasons as to why they disagree.
Democracy has been entrenched from grassroots to national level and is all
inclusive, no one is left behind. NRM gave affirmative action to the youth, women,
PWDs and the elderly, who are represented at local government councils,
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 267

Parliament and in their own youth, PWD and elderly councils respectively, from
the village to the national level.
NRM introduced local councils starting at village level. Before NRM came into
power, the Minister of Local Government appointed district councils.
Today, each parish elects a councilor to represent it at the sub-county local

government council. At the district, each sub-county is represented by a councilor
on the district local government.
At both the sub-county council and the district, women are reserved a third of
the council positions. This is deliberately aimed at giving power to the people are
getting previously marginalised women to be included in decision-making.
NRM will continue consolidating and deepening democracy. Furthermore, NRM

gave the elected councils powers through the district and sub-county local
governments. There is still a challenge that these councils are not using their powers
to fight corruption in service delivery. For instance, primary education, primary
healthcare (Health Centre IIs, IIIs and IVs), water, district roads, recruitment of
civil servants at district level are all decentralised services under the district local
governments.
If the councils exercise their supervisory role, they will fight corruption in service
delivery.
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3. ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL

RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
3.1 INTRODUCTION
NRM is committed to ensuring sustainable use of the environment and natural resources.
Environment and natural resources are at the core of sustainable development and critical
for socio-economic development, healthy ecosystems and human survival.
Thus increasing forest cover is vital for maintaining water flows for hydropower generation,
food security, fisheries, domestic water supply, industry, navigation, tourism, wildlife and
ecosystems.
It is NRM’s policy to conserve forests. However, there is a problem of encroachment on the

natural forests yet they are part of the rainmaking ‘factory’ for Africa.
NRM leadership will work with the people who have invaded these vital areas for them to
understand the consequences of their actions and help them to leave the forests.
The eihuunga (windy storms) are destroying houses because the forests that would have
slowed down the wind have been cut. Trees are windbreakers and once removed, the
shield is gone. In flat areas like parts of eastern Uganda, between the Elgon and the Nile,
there’s always a disaster waiting to occur.
All the families must, therefore, plant hedges as boundary trees for their farms but also
as windbreaks. The scientists will advise on the right species that will not take away the
nutrients of the crops. Trees like Albizia, Senna siamea, Caleandra and Tamarindus indica
are recommended because they also fix nitrogen.
Alternatively, fruit trees like mangoes, avocado, citrus, jackfruit should be planted.
Furthermore, proper wetland management is critical for mitigating flood risks, proper
navigation, maintaining water quality and quantity of water resources. It is not correct or
wise for people to try to be cleverer than God.
If God said that this should be a wetland, it is not right to turn it into a garden or town.
Doing so means one is saying God made a mistake to make the area a wetland.
Wetlands account for 40% of rain. The other 60% comes from the oceans (the Pacific and
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 269

Indian oceans). Should we lose 40% of our rain? As far as the wetlands are concerned, the
correct usage is to make fishponds at the edges of the swamps and allow the centre to
regenerate.
Fish farming is much more profitable than swamp rice or mayuni (yams). We have already
embarked on resettling those who had settled in wetlands in Kibuku and Pallisa districts.
The people who had settled in wetlands earning so little per acre were organised to own
fishponds where they earn about 100 times more than they were earning when they were
destroying the wetlands. This programme will be extended to all those areas where people
had settled in wetlands.
3.2. PROGRESS
NRM’s efforts to conserve and restore the forest cover started yielding results as forest
cover increased from 9.5% in 2017 to 12.4% in 2019.
Forest plantations have increased to 43,866ha, new plantations established by private
investors in Central Forest Reserves (CFRs), National Forestry Authority (NFA) and district
forest services. We are going to build on this momentum.
Regarding wetland coverage, in the last five years, NRM has restored 637ha of degraded
wetlands and demarcated 283.7km of critical wetlands.
The critical restored wetlands include:
Katonga-Sembabule, Mikomago-Masaka, Lubigi-Wakiso and Limoto-Pallisa, Lwere
wetland in Bukedea, Nyamirembe in Bushenyi, Kibimba wetland in Gomba, Chosan-
Cholol wetland in Nakapiripirit.
In addition, critical wetlands boundaries were demarcated with pillars in: Gulu, Lira,
Mbale, Bushenyi, Hoima, Jinja, Masindi, Amuria, Kaliro, Buyende, Namutumba, Iganga,
Rakai, Sheema, Buhweju, Alebtong, Dokolo, Kisoro, Kabarole, Wakiso, Arua.
To improve municipal solid waste management, composting facilities were provided
to new cities and municipalities of; Arua, Gulu, Lira, Soroti, Mbale, Jinja, Fort Portal,
Mbarara, Hoima, Tororo, Busia, Entebbe, Mityana, Masindi, Mukono, Kasese, and
Kabale. Each received specialised equipment including skip loaders, wheel loaders
and a composting plant.
Furthermore, support was provided to four cities: Jinja, Mbale and Masaka and Kampala
for their composting plants to convert solid waste into biogas.
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3.3 WAY FORWARD

NRM is going to focus on restoration, protection and demarcation of critical ecosystems
in wetlands and forest reserves throughout the country in order to build a sustainable
green economy. The target is to increase the national forest cover from 12.4% to 15%
and increase wetlands cover from 8.9% to 11.5% by 2026.
NRM is also going to improve climate data and information to accurately inform
efforts that address vulnerability to improve prediction and readiness to dealing with
the adverse effects of climate variability and change. In particular, we are going to;
a. Intensify tree planting on individual and commercial farms, fragile ecosystems such
as rivers banks and lake shores, Government and non-governmental institutions’
premises/land, roads reserves, along railways and pipelines, corridors, wildlife
conservation areas, green parks in urban areas, forest reserves, private forests,
communal land, homesteads and other publicly owned infrastructure. Through
this effort, Government will make a deliberate policy of distributing 40 million trees
free and/or subsidised to communities countrywide to plant on gazetted tree
planting days.
It is estimated that a total of 200 million assorted tree seedlings will be distributed and
planted thereby translating into restoration of 150,000ha of degraded natural forests
in CFRs, Local Forest Reserves (LFRs) and hilly areas in five years.
b. Demarcate all wetlands, river banks and lake shores with pillars and gazette
them with an estimated boundary length of 50,000km out of the total 144,316km
boundary country wide.
c. Restore encroached and degraded wetlands, riverbanks and lake shores
estimated at 4,9421.6km2 out of the current 9,885.1km2. In this regard, we will;
i. Implement wetland management plans with community livelihood options
covering 15,705.7km2 of sustainably managed wetlands with at least 1,500
livelihood enhancement wetlands enterprises for the neighbouring community
and private sector countrywide. The people who invaded the wetlands will be
advised and supported by the Government to engage in economic activities
like fish farming that are sustainable and friendly to the wetlands as has been
done in Kibuku and Pallisa, where the people are earning much more from
fishponds than rice.
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ii. Undertake a special restoration programme for Kabale and Teso wetlands
through return of titles issued before 1995.
iii. Cancel any title given out on a wetland.
d. Operationalise the Environment Protection Unit as stipulated in the National

Environment Act 2019. We are going to beef up the current Environment Protection
Police Unit (EPPU) manpower from the current 186 to 350 in the short to medium
term.
e. Promote strategies to reduce biomass energy use resulting in utilisation of charcoal
and encourage the use of natural gas and electricity especially for cooking in
the short, medium and long term. Research has shown that it is cheaper to cook
with gas and electricity than using charcoal. However, many people in the urban
centres are still using charcoal, thus contributing to environmental degradation. In
order to promote the use of gas and electricity for cooking, we will remove import
duty on gas and electric cookers.
f. Using a science-led approach to put municipal organic solid waste to better cost
effective use such as, producing organic fertilisers, biotechnological products —
food enzymes, proteins, bioethanol — and biodegradable plastics.
g. Periodically monitor/benchmark environmental indicators for cities, for example
install air and water quality and pollution monitoring equipment in Kampala and
other cities.
h. Revamp and equip existing weather stations as well as establish new ones in the
newly created districts.
i. Invest in developing climate ICT, including but not limited to high performance
computing, data analytical tools, and networks.
j. Promote environmentally-friendly modes of transport.
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ACHIEVING ECONOMIC
AND POLITICAL INTEGRATION
ACHIEVING ECONOMIC
AND POLITICAL INTEGRATION
N RM government knows that co-operation is key to the redemption of mankind

and, in particular, Africans.
Africa is the most fragmented continent with 55 small economies and a GDP that is
equivalent to that of France. With a population of about 1.3 billion, Africa’s combined
GDP of $2.75 trillion (in 2019) is slightly less than that of France ($2.83 trillion) with only
66 million people. This calls for the integration of African economies, diversification
of African exports and bringing down barriers at the borders. In this section of the
manifesto, we highlight the progress made in integrating Africa and the way forward.
1. ACHIEVING ECONOMIC AND

POLITICAL INTEGRATION
Trade has been the driver of economic, social and political integration of African
countries for many centuries prior to the establishment of Africa’s first continental
body, the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), in 1963. In 1980, the OAU adopted the
Lagos Plan of Action for the Economic Development of Africa 1980-2000, articulating
the development plan for Africa that included the formation of an African Common
Market.
Among the decisions was the establishment of an African Economic Community, the
strengthening of existing regional economic communities and the creation of others
to cover the continent as a whole. ECOWAS already existed among the West African
countries. Southern Africa also had a socio-economic co-operation arrangement,
the Southern African Development Co-ordination Conference created in the 1980s,
274 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

which was later replaced by Southern African Development Community in 1992.
Similarly, Southern and Eastern Africa established a Preferential Trade Area in 1981,
which eventually became the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa
(COMESA) in 1993.
The Abuja Treaty laid out the future of the continent with the objective of the
establishment of an African Economic Community. The integration process is set to
cover a period of 34 years from 1994 to 2028.
NRM, therefore, considers the economic and political integration of Africa as a matter
of survival for the African nations. This is why Principle Number Three of NRM Ideology
is Pan-Africanism. Among the 10 strategic bottlenecks that NRM identified is limited
market access for African nations. This is on account of the fragmented nature of the
African markets.
For instance, Uganda has a market of only 45 million people. What is 45 million people
in comparison to a country like China, which boasts of a market of 1.3 billion people?
What about India with a market of 1.3 billion people? The European Union market
comes third after China and India with a market of 446 million people. What would be
the status of the individual European countries if they were not part of the European
Union and remained as small markets? Obviously, they would not be as prosperous
and as secure as they are today.
Now that NRM has awakened Ugandans to realise their potential to produce large
quantities of numerous commodities, they will need a huge collective market. As we
move towards mass production, we will need to build the capacity for greater supply
of goods produced by Uganda’s industries.
NRM will continue to fully develop the internal market of 45 million Ugandans; take
advantage of the regional market of 177 million East Africans and aim to trade with
the 1.3 billion Africans. This will give Uganda a good base to negotiate with other
huge economic giants like the European Union, USA, China and India. Therefore, we
will pursue economic integration to guarantee Uganda’s prosperity.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 275

NRM will also continue to work towards the political integration of Africa. This is
because we recognise that economic prosperity alone may not immunise the African
people against aggression by bigger powers. As long as we remain small separate
states, we remain at the risk of being conquered once again. It means that we are
repeating the mistake of our ancestors who fell prey to colonialism because they
were fragmented into small tribes.
NRM is fully convinced that political integration is Africa’s insurance policy against
subjugation, marginalisation and aggression by greedy powers. Africa is a beautiful
pearl, which attracts the envy of many outsiders. Its conducive weather, abundant
natural resources, fertile soils and large water bodies remain a source of temptation.
We are looked upon with hungry eyes by some powerful predators. We can only cure
our vulnerability by creating a strong centre of gravity through political integration.
1.1. PROGRESS
NRM has registered the following achievements in collaboration with other African
states to realise economic and political integration:
a. Strengthening Uganda’s fraternal ties with her neighbours by promoting mutual

co-operation in areas of development, security, human rights, environmental
protection and conservation.
b. Signing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement as a follow
up on the 1991 Abuja Treaty. This agreement is a great step towards removing
barriers to intra-trade in Africa.
c. Securing third party market access to the USA, European Union, China and Japan.
d. Championing the cause of East African Federation by leading the constitutional

drafting committee comprised of delegates from all the East African Community
member states.
e. Working with the United Nations (UN) and the African Union Mission to Somalia
(AMISOM) to ensure peace and stability in the region.
f. A one-stop centre has been set up at the Uganda Investment Authority to ease the
276 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

investment process while several one-stop border posts have been constructed
to hasten international trade. We have been particularly so keen on expanding
export markets through trade negotiations at bilateral, regional and multilateral
levels.
1.2. WAY FORWARD

NRM will continue to ensure the prosperity of Ugandans through integration of the
African market; promote strategic security through political integration and support
the fraternity of the African people.
Uganda recognises the socio-cultural linkages that unite all the African people. The
African population is only divided into four linguistic groups. These are: Niger-Congo
(Bantu and Kwa); the Nilo-Saharan (Hamitic, Nilotic and Nilo-Hamitic); the Afro-Asiatic
(Arabic, Tigrinya and Amharic); and Khoisan (so called bushmen in Southern Africa).
We embrace the outstanding linguistic features which make us either similar or linked.
This is a unique social advantage that we will continue to exploit to further trade and
mutual co-operation.
The view of NRM, therefore, is that we start with integration of the regional blocs where
we are more compatible and similar than aiming for the big continental integration.
For instance, in East Africa, in addition to the similarities among our languages, we
have Swahili; a neutral language which would make the process of integration much
easier. We can create a United States of Eastern and Central Africa around Swahili
language.
NRM will fast-track the implementation of all the provisions of the African Continental
Free Trade Area Agreement. This will provide us with a great opportunity to advance
our prosperity by gaining unhampered access to the huge African market.
As is always mentioned in our documents, the prosperity of Ugandans and other

Africans, would be greatly assisted by implementing NRM’s principles of Patriotism
(mwoyo gwa Uganda) and Pan-Africanism (mwoyo gwa Africa), by widening the
market for goods and services of our producers. With the limited waking up of the
Ugandans, you have seen the big volumes we are already generating: 7.75 million
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 277

60kg bags of coffee and aiming at 20 million; 5 million tonnes of maize, while we only
consume 1 million tonnes within Uganda as of now; 540,000 metric tonnes of sugar,
while we only consume 380,000 metric tonnes in Uganda; 2.6 billion litres of milk, while
Ugandans only consume 800 million litres, leaving a surplus of 1.8 billion litres; bananas
where our production is 7.6 million tonnes, but the internal consumption is 7 million
tonnes; tyres and tubes for piki pikis (motorcycles) where our daily production is 10,000
units for each, but the internal consumption is only 3,000 pieces per day; blankets,
where the daily production of one of the factories in Mukono is, again, 10,000 units,
but Uganda’s consumption is only 3,000 units, etc. It should, therefore, be clear that
without integrating the African market, the growth prospects for modernising the
economy sustainably and continuously, are quite dim and complicated. You cannot,
therefore, say that you are for the growth and transformation of any part of Africa
yet you are talking of tribes, religion and gender discrimination in politics and you
do not talk about Patriotism and Pan-Africanism. Once all the African people wake
up and become commercial producers in agriculture, industry, services and ICT —
how will their products be sold with the 55 fragmented markets, each representing a
former colony of one or the other of the European powers? Do we need the lessons of
history if we are not convinced by the obvious logic? If we do, let us, then, look at the
examples of the different people in the world. Let us start with the story of the German
and Italian people of the 1800s. Neither Germany nor Italy were one country until
1960 when the unification of Italy pushed by Cavour and Galbaldi and for Germany
until 1871, following the Franco-Prussian War of 1870. In the case of Germany, Pan-
Germanism was pushed by Bismarck and the Prussian Junkers, big landowners, who
wanted markets for their products. Before 1860, Italy was divided in eight small
kingdoms and before 1871, Germany was divided into 39 small kingdoms.
Before the events of the 1860s and 1870s in Italy and Germany, let us also go back to
1776 when the settlers in North America rebelled against the British King, George III.
At that time those British North American colonies were 13. They were: Massachusetts,
New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware,
New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. Led by
George Washington, they expelled the British, having started with the slogan of “No
taxation without representation”. After defeating the British, they came to a historical
junction. The question was: “Does each colony become independent as a separate
country or do they unite and form one union?” They held a conference at Faneuil
Hall from 23rd to 28th September 1778 and, in the end, resolved to unite. By so doing,
278 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

they created an entaango (a nucleus) of the most powerful state in the history of
man of 4.5 million years. The Spanish colonies, on the other hand, in South America,
similarly rebelled against the Spanish in the year 1813, led by Simon Bolivar. However,
when they ejected the Spanish, they failed to unite. Until today, Latin America, as
it is called, is a centre of weakness, under-development, crime, drugs, poverty and
joblessness, in spite of the huge natural resources in that continent. Latin America is
one of the richest continents in terms of numbers of countries with the 20 countries of:
Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Peru, Venezuela, Chile, Guatemala, Ecuador,
Bolvia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Honduras, Paraguay, El Salvador, Nicaragua,
Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, Panama and Uruguay, compared to only three countries of
the North American continent. The three are: USA, Canada and Mexico. The three
cover a land area of about 7 million square miles. Latin America is a continent of 8.13
million square miles. Africa, with 12 million square miles, is of course, richer in terms of
number of countries. Africa has 55 countries.
63 years after Ghana’s independence, the post-independence African leaders need

to answer this question: “Have we built a Latin America in Africa or a United States of
Africa in Africa?” The strategic challenges we face and the chaos we see in Libya,
Somalia, Congo, Central Africa, Mali, etc., seems to suggest that we have successfully
built a Latin America in Africa.
Do we need other examples? Let us look at USA, China and India. USA is a country
of 320 million people and 3 million square miles of land with a GDP of US$20.8 trillion.
They, therefore, have a huge internal market for businesspeople and producers of
goods and services. China is a land of 3 million square miles, a population of 1.3
billion people and a GDP of US$14.14 trillion (nominal). India is a land of 1 million
square miles, with a population of 1.3 billion people and a GDP of US$2.6 trillion. In
spite of their huge, individual respective markets, these countries are always fighting
for additional external markets. Indeed, USA exports goods and services worth US$1.6
trillion, China US$2.5 trillion and India US$324.16 billion. How, then, can we have a
situation in Africa and Uganda, where leaders are only talking about tribes, religious
sectarianism and power over the bureaucracy? Is it not a danger that leaders seem
not to be bothered with these destiny-deciding strategic issues?
Above, we have, mainly, talked about economic integration to guarantee prosperity

by availing a big internal market for goods and services. There is, however, the
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 279

issue of strategic security. Why was Africa colonised in the first place? How did we
survive the horrors of slave trade and colonialism? How did we, eventually, regain our
independence? What measures have we taken since independence to insure the
future of a free and prosperous Africa? How can it be, that we insure cars, buildings,
etc., but never think of insuring Africa strategically against any actor on the globe?
USA is now talking of achieving four-dimensional superiority: superiority on land (Army),
superiority in the air (Air Force), superiority at sea (Navy) and superiority in Space
(satellites). Where does this leave Africa, where some of the member states are not
able to ensure even internal peace against terrorists?
The EAC, COMESA and CFTA are all efforts at economic integration for ensuring our
prosperity. Even assuming these economic integration protocols are implemented
meticulously, which they are not, economic integration alone, would not answer the
problem of strategic security to guarantee our sovereignty and prosperity. Given
the nightmare Africa went through, it cannot be correct that we allow a situation
to persist where African interests, including sovereignty, are only realisable with the
permission of others. That is why, since 1963, when our leaders — Mzee Kenyatta,
Mwalimu Nyerere, Mzee Obote and a delegation from Somalia, when they met in
Nairobi on 6th June 1963 and declared that the East African Federation would be born
by the end of that year, we have been supporting that effort unwaveringly.
The founding fathers of the East African Community in the 1960s: Front row, left to right,
Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere, Uganda’s Milton Obote and Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta
280 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

Political Federations in Africa, where they are feasible, would answer both the question
of prosperity and strategic security. The Federation of East Africa, with a land area of
1 million square miles and a population of 183,625,246 people, that will be 878,236,244
by 2050, would be a super power. If Congo, Zambia and Malawi could join, you
create a United States of America-like centre of gravity for the African race in Africa.
We always discuss with other African leaders about creating other Federations in
other areas: Central Africa, West Africa, North Africa, the Horn and Southern Africa.
We have never supported the idea of an All Africa Union continental government
which Dr. Nkrumah and Muammar Gaddafi supported because such a union will not
have internal cohesion which the regional Federations definitely have. In the case of
East Africa, apart from the similar Bantu, Nilotic, Cushitic, Nilo-Hamitic and Sudanic
dialects, we have the good fortune of Swahilli, which is a neutral dialect, belonging to
no tribe, that unites us. With the East African Federation, we would handle the three
issues of prosperity, strategic security and fraternity (the linkages among the African
people by languages and customs). We feel culturally oppressed by the colonial
borders where we cannot freely interact with people who speak our dialects across
the borders which our leaders resolved to respect at independence in order to avoid
endless wrangles because they realised that the borders were irrational. However,
the independence leaders and the subsequent generations, were supposed to
supersede those borders by negotiations and integration. By being arrivist, the post-
independence leaders, except for Mwalimu Nyerere and Sheikh Amani Karume, have
neglected their historical obligation.
We are, therefore, quite happy that the EAC was revived, COMESA was created and
the CFTA has recently been relaunched when everybody seemed to have forgotten
that the Abuja Treaty of 3rd June 1991 that was talking about the same effort, had
been put in the freezer for all these years. Additionally, the Treaty for East African co-
operation talks of the eventual formation of the East African Federation. Recently,
all the East African states committed themselves to the East African confederation
as a first step towards the Federation. This was a commendable step that should be
vigorously followed up. A constitution drafting committee has been in existence since.
If Ugandans give us a fresh mandate, we shall vigorously, working with like-minded East
Africans, aim at expediting the whole process. The Banyankole and Baganda have
a proverb which goes like this: “Kakihweyo acumita omukyira – kakigweyo, afumita
omukira”. This refers to a hunter in ambush for an animal (kugweera) with a spear. If
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 281
he says: “Let the animal first come out completely from the thicket where, it has been
hiding (kihweyo, kigweyo), he ends up only injuring the tail” and the animal escapes,
which means that the hunt fails. The English have something comparable. They say:
“procrastination is the thief of time”. In the coming Kisanja, if the Ugandans support
us, we shall urge our comrades in East Africa to make some time-bound decisive
steps. In case some of the member states have some problem in moving forward
expeditiously, we could adopt the strategy of variable geometry – where those who
are ready move and others join later. That is what Mwalimu Nyerere and Sheikh Abed
Karume did and created Tanzania out of Tanganyika and Zanzibar. That decision
has been of great benefit to the citizens of the two countries, but to also show an
example to the rest of Africa, that economic, political and cultural integration, the
three in one, are possible in some cases.
282 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

CONCLUSION
Since 1996, NRM has written very good manifestos that convinced Ugandans to keep
it in power. We have, however, had a weakness in implementing them due to weak
supervision and monitoring of public servants.
Now, to strengthen monitoring and co-ordination, NRM leadership is going to be

actively involved in supervising government to implement and achieve the targets
outlined in this manifesto.
After analysis of past achievements, the five main sections of the NRM Manifesto,
2021-2026 were deliberately conceived and developed.
They are a continuity of the past manifestos: the one of 1996-2001 was about “Tackling
the Tasks Ahead”; 2001-2006 was on “Consolidating the Achievements”; 2006-2011
aimed at “Prosperity for All”; that of 2011-2016 was “Better Service Delivery and Job-
Creation”; while that of 2016-2021 was “Taking Uganda to Modernity through Job-
creation and Inclusive Development”.
Through these remarkable manifestos, we have been able to rally our people around
policies that best serve their diverse aspirations and genuine interests. On them we
continue to build for the improvement of the people’s livelihood.
The peace, security and stability foundation has been erected and on it modernity
and prosperity have been spouting over the years.
As always we are confident and sure that the journey of transforming Uganda is not
only continuing, but also bearing fruit. The country has now reached the irreversible
take-off stage. Ugandans now have a secure future.
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 283

REFERENCES
1
Worthington E. B. (1947). Development Plan for Uganda (1946 - 1955). Government Printer, Entebbe, Uganda.
2
Wringley C. C. (1959). Crops and Wealth in Uganda: A Short Agrarian History. East African Institute of Social Research, Kampala,
Uganda.
3
ibid.
4
ibid.
5
Stoutjesdijk E. J. (1967). “Uganda’s Manufacturing Sector: A contribution to the analysis of industrialisation in East Africa.”
Makerere Institute of Social Research, East African Publishing House. Nairobi, Kenya.
6
MTIC, UMA & USSIA (2018), “The Status of the Industrial Sector in Uganda.” Ministry of Trade Industry and Co-operatives;
Uganda Manufacturers Association; and Uganda Small Scale Industries Association.

7
ibid.
8
Kagwa, A. (1953). Basekabaka b’e Buganda (the Kings of Buganda), 4th edition, Kampala, 1953, p. 277. In Wringley C. C. (1959).
“Crops and Wealth in Uganda: A Short Agrarian History.” East African Institute of Social Research, Kampala, Uganda.
9
Uganda Protectorate. Joint Report of the Standing Finance Committee and the Development and Welfare Committee on Post-War
Development, 1944.
10
World Bank Report, The Economic Development of Uganda, 1961.
11
ibid.
12
World Bank Development Indicators. See https://data.worldbank.org/country/uganda. Accessed on September 4, 2020.
13
In 1964, Uganda’s coffee exports reached 2.2 million 60-kg bags, which declined to 0.9 million bags in 1972. By the time NRM took
power in 1986 Uganda was exporting 3 million bags. Last year (2019), we exported 7.5 million bags.
14
Elkan W. (1961). The Economic Development of Uganda. Oxford University Press.
15
Bigsten Arne and Steve Kayizzi-Mugerwa (1999), Is Uganda an emerging economy? A report for the OECD project “Emerging
Africa”, Department of Economics, Göteborg University, Sweden.

16
Kibikyo David Lameck (2008), Assessing Privatization in Uganda, Unpublished PhD Thesis submitted to Roskilde University
Centre (RUC), Denmark.

17
Ugandans who became rich after taking over the companies of the expelled Asian businesspeople.
18
Bigsten and Kayizzi-Mugerwa, 1999.
19
World Bank (1985), Uganda - Progress towards recovery and prospects for development. Washington, DC: World Bank. Report No.
595-UG
20
Bigsten & Kayizzi-Mugerwa, 1999.
21
Musinguzi, Polycarp; Marios B. Obwona; & Dirck J. Stryker, (2000), “Monetary and Exchange Rate Policy in Uganda” African
Economic Policy, Discussion Paper No. 23. April 2000.

22
Bigsten and Kayizzi-Mugerwa, 1999.
23
UBOS, July 2020. Uganda Bureau of Statistics.
284 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

ANNEX
ROADS IN THE PIPELINE
SN PROJECT NAME LENGTH (KM)
1 Kamuli - Kaliro - Namwiwa/Mayuge - Palisa 111
2 Kazo - Buremba - Kyegegwa 81
3 Rakai - Isingiro / Kafunjo - Kikagati 135
4 Soroti - Amuria - Abim 83
5 Gulu - Pader - Patongo - Abim 176
6 Kilak - Rhino Camp 99
7 Panyimur - Pakwach - Rhino camp - Laropi 220
8 Butalangu - Ngoma - Masindi 120
9 Nakasongola - Zengebe 25
10 Goli - Paidha-Zombo-Warr-Arua 119
11 Corner Ayer-Corner Aboke-Bobi 55
12 Access to Muzizi Hydro Power Project (Muhoro - Ndaiga - Muzizi) 60
13 Kashozi-Buremba-Kariro 68
Hamurwa - Kerere- Kanungu/ Buleme - Buhoma - Butogota -
14 149
Hamayanja - Ifasha - Ikumba
15 Bombo - Ndejje - Kalasa 19
16 Adjumani - Obongi - Kulikulinga 80
17 Katuugo - Kinyogogga 32
18 Kinyogogga-Kaweweeta 9
19 Kikagati - Kitwe - Mirama Hills 30
20 Mitala-Maria - Bulo - Kakoma - Kabulasoke 51
21 Panyimur - Parombo - Goli 66.5
22 Parombo - Nyaravur - Wadelai 62.8
23 Nebbi - Jukia - Goli Customs 14.4
24 Anaka - Amuru - Adjumani 175
25 Alokolum - Alero - Corner Nwoya 48
26 Koch Goma - Lii - Karuma - Minakulu 78
27 Awere - Puranga - Ognonyo - Arum 140
MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 285

28 Gulu - Opit - Awere - Rackoko 168

29 Gulu - Patiko - Palaro 84
30 Corner Kila - Adilang 68
31 Gulu - Bar-dege-Awe 34
32 Moroto Road - Tochi - Atiang - Opit - Awo 94
33 Busukuma - Kabumba - Lugo - Buwambo - Kiryamuli Road 15
34 Kiwenda - Nazalesi - Wamilongo - Bombo TC Road 15
35 Busembatya - Kibale - Nangonde - Pallisa
36 Naluwerere - Bugayi - Muwayo 25
Busowa - Lwanika - Wangulu - Nabukalu - Nkaiza - Kiseitaka - Iwemba
37 84
- Buwuni - Katodha
(Buwuni - Kitodha) - Buwolya - Mayuge - Shanyonja - Buwemba -
38 60
Mutumba - Bumeru Landing Site
39 Busowa - Buwunga - Namuntenga - Wakawaka Landing Site 45
40 Buwenge - Kaliro - Kasokwe - Namutumba - Gadumire
286 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

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NRM Manifesto 2021-2026

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SECURING YOUR FUTURE

MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 1

Therefore, in order to accelerate Uganda’s socio-economic transformation, I appeal to

For God and My Country.

Yoweri Kaguta Museveni

6 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

PROFILE OF THE NRM

He displays exceptional understanding of the historical and social challenges of African

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Uganda, under Museveni’s leadership, has registered tremendous steady progress in

Under President Museveni’s leadership, Uganda has significantly contributed to regional

8 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

President Yoweri Museveni

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Museveni’s transformative leadership has earned him several accolades, including:

l He has been awarded several honorary doctorates, including:

10 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

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2.2.6. TURNING YOUTH INTO MANUFACTURERS USING ZONAL INDUSTRIAL HUBS................ 70

14 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

4.5.1. PROGRESS ....................................................................................................................... 127

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6. MINERAL-LED INDUSTRIALISATION................................................................................ 172

DELIVERING EDUCATION, HEALTH AND WATER................................................ 202

ENSURING JUSTICE AND EQUITY......................................................................... 240

16 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

3. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION................................................................................................... 249

PROTECTING LIFE AND PROPERTY....................................................................... 262

ACHIEVING ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL INTEGRATION.................................. 274

CONCLUSION ....................................................................................................... 283

ANNEX ....................................................................................................... 285

MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 17

N ational Resistance Movement (NRM) party continues to enjoy massive support

20 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

economic foundation already established.

1. CREATING JOBS AND WEALTH

NRM will promote commercial agriculture as opposed to the unprofitable subsistence

Uganda weathered the storm because of the Government’s appropriate actions,

MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 21

The Government’s capitalisation of the Uganda Development Bank (UDB) will be

2. DELIVERING EDUCATION, HEALTH AND WATER

22 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

The Government, as a first pragmatic step, developed guidelines and standard

3. ENSURING JUSTICE AND EQUITY

MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 23

4. PROTECTING LIFE AND PROPERTY

5. ACHIEVING ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL INTEGRATION

24 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

CREATING JOBS AND WEALTH

O ne of NRM’s outstanding challenges is getting the economy to work more efficiently

(c) Take advantage of opportunities created by COVID-19 to accelerate our

26 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

1. EVOLUTION OF UGANDA’S ECONOMY

1.1. UGANDAN ECONOMY AT THE DAWN OF COLONIALISM

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Uganda was configured as an “enclave economy” where foreigners (Europeans and

30 • MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026

services, the prime object should be a concentration on productive effort to ensure

In 1954 a new plan — titled A Five-Year Capital Development Plan 1955-1960 —

MANIFESTO 2021 - 2026 • 31

1.2. UGANDA’S ECONOMY AT THE SUNSET OF COLONIALISM